Twickenham Riverside regeneration gathers pace with key works underway

The major regeneration of Twickenham Riverside is taking shape, with key works now well underway following recent Council funding approval.

The scheme will deliver new public spaces, improve river access, and deliver 45 new homes – including affordable housing – transforming a key part of Twickenham’s town centre and turning long-held ambition into reality.

Leader of Richmond Council, Councillor Gareth Roberts, said:

“For years, residents have imagined a riverside that is open, welcoming, and at the heart of the community. With funding now in place, we are turning that vision into action.

“Residents will start to see real changes on the ground over the coming months,” he said.

Progress onsite includes:

• Retail clearance and demolition preparation: The former Santander bank, The Works, and Superdrug units have been safely cleared, preparing the site for demolition
• Comprehensive surveys: Archaeological investigations, soil and drainage surveys, and utility checks have also been carried out to support the next phase of construction
• Site safety: Hoardings, fencing, and temporary facilities are in place to keep the area safe while works continue
• Utilities and infrastructure: A temporary substation is now in place, paving the way for essential utility works to follow
• Heritage safeguarded: Key heritage including the WWI Triptych, Diamond Jubilee Gardens artwork, and paving stones have been carefully removed and stored

Councillor Jim Millard, Deputy Leader and Finance and Resources Lead, said:

“Behind the hoardings the riverside is taking shape, with sites cleared, surveys completed, utilities in place, and heritage preserved.”

This latest phase follows the Council’s June decision to approve funding for the main construction phase – marking an important step forward for the project and unlocking significant long-term investment in Richmond upon Thames.

Councillor Millard added: “The Twickenham Riverside regeneration is much more than bricks and mortar – it will reconnect people with the river, support independent shops and restaurants, and create open spaces for everyone. Every step brings this vision closer to reality.”

Main construction will begin early next year, delivering:

• 45 new homes – including affordable housing  
• Terraced lawns and landscaped gardens designed with improved accessibility 
• A children’s play area featuring a treehouse and climbing wall 
• Pétanque pitches and tiered river-facing seating 
• Improved pedestrian links from King Street to the river

Councillor Roberts said: “This bold scheme, with the community’s interests at its core, will unlock the riverside’s potential and bring lasting benefits to Twickenham and the wider borough.”