Early ideas.
Lasting consequences.
Before taking a position, understand what is being investigated — and what has not been decided.
What the study covers
Royal Docks Waterways has started a feasibility study into Floating Residential at Royal Victoria Dock West. Haptic Architects and Gort Scott lead the study. The October 2026 document describes residential moorings, purpose-built floating homes and communal facilities for people living on the water and in the surrounding area.
The early ideas show homes of 1–3 storeys and a landscaped public boardwalk. They propose shared indoor and outdoor spaces, new habitats, all-electric homes and no discharge from homes into the dock.
The mix of boats and floating homes could change over time. The document says there could be more boats, more homes or an equal mix.
Official early ideas · page 11What the illustrations mean
The official document says its illustrations show design principles, scale and context. They are not final proposals. This site does not present those illustrations as an approved layout or a fixed number of homes.
Official early ideas · page 3What about the number of homes?
The official project FAQ, checked on 8 October 2026, says something like the current illustrations could amount to approximately 100 units, made up of boats and homes. It also says that nothing has been decided. That is an indicative possibility, not a confirmed total or maximum.
Read the project FAQInfrastructure and existing activities
The residential ideas include boardwalks, communal spaces and integrated services. The wider vision also discusses possible changes to existing water activities. Those wider discussions should not be presented as consequences of an approved residential scheme.
Official early ideas · page 9What RVDW has said about these questionsWhere things stand
Select a stage to read more. The February and April 2027 stages are expectations in the October document, not guarantees.
Early ideas consultation
Early design ideas are shared for comment. The published feedback period runs from 5 to 25 October 2026.
Indicative timetable from page 1 of the October 2026 document. Future dates may change.
Why speak up now?
Early participation can influence whether a scheme proceeds, how alternatives are assessed and what evidence is required. It is a chance to question the principle of residential use of the water as well as the details of the emerging design.
Royal Docks Waterways says projects will need planning permission. The current consultation is not a substitute for any later formal planning process.
Official vision FAQs: planning and next steps Read the campaign’s position