Concerned about the depletion of London’s stock of public spaces over the past 30 years, this proposal combines public space and green infrastructure by introducing a decentralised network of small hydroelectric plants and the emerging technology of tidal lagoons along the publicly owned foreshore of the River Thames.
A 150m-long concrete lagoon structure transforms the Surrey Docks in Rotherhithe, bridging over the river edge to create strategic routes, with pedestrians and cyclists offset from the building within the 30m width. The historic London typology of an ‘adelphi’ is updated for the present day, including an open public space at ground level and mixed-use programme above.
The proposal celebrates the history of the Thames and creates manageable bodies of water to interact with. The hydroelectric plant network contributes to the London Plan policies for sustainability and complements better river transport services that support healthier streets. This new type of public infrastructure can help society be more open to and aware of the needs of the environment and each other.