Seven out of ten Richmond residents when consulted supported the proposals for Twickenham Riverside but the Eel Pie Island residents still remain unconvinced.

The feedback from the consultation showed that more than half of those asked said they would be more likely to visit an improved Twickenham Riverside and a further third said they’d continue visiting Twickenham Riverside.

Cllr Gareth Roberts, Leader of Richmond Council, said: ‘I’m really pleased that we’re able to release the full findings from the recent consultation exercise. It’s clear that the majority of respondents support the vision that this Council has for Twickenham Riverside; a vision which, thanks to the beautiful designs from Hopkins Architects will create the heart for Twickenham which has been promised by successive administrations over the last thirty years but, so far, never delivered.’

Over the past twelve months, Hopkins Architects and their team, with help from the Council, have been working hard to develop the design for the Twickenham Riverside site. This follows a design competition held in 2019.

The scheme will deliver housing (including affordable homes), office space, shops, a café and pub/restaurant and plenty of open space. This open space includes relocating the Diamond Jubilee Gardens into the centre of the proposed development, with suggestions for event space, an exciting children’s play area and pétanque pitches as well as terraced lawns, planting and trees. The proposal also includes public open space along the Embankment with a flexible events space and a widened Water Lane with inviting views from King Street.

Earlier this year, residents were asked their views on the proposals – and 829 people took the opportunity to have their say.

The results show that:

  • 89 per cent of people who took part in the consultation visit Twickenham Riverside regularly (Daily / Weekly / Monthly)
  • 84 per cent of people who took part in the consultation said that they would be either more likely or just as likely to visit the Riverside after the redevelopment
  • 73 per cent  of people agree that the proposed development achieves the ambition of high-quality open space and pedestrianised priority

Of the respondents, it was clear that the residents of Eel Pie Island were not supportive of the proposals. They are concerned about the impact on parking and vehicle access for island residents. The survey shows that the reduction of parking and vehicle access is the most popular aspect of the development with the overall community. Also more than 20 per cent of the island residents were less likely to visit Twickenham riverside despite the fact that they live there.

The consultation results will be used to inform design development as the Council and Design Team work towards submission of a planning application this summer.

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