Richmond Council given power to acquire Diamond Jubilee Gardens

On Thursday 9 November 2023, the Planning Inspectorate and Secretary of State approved Richmond Council's use of Compulsory Purchase Powers to acquire land within Diamond Jubilee Gardens. This will enable the Council to press ahead with redeveloping Twickenham Riverside and providing a brand-new heart for Twickenham. 

Cllr Gareth Roberts, Leader of Richmond Council, said:

“It has taken a long time to get to this stage, but we are delighted with the Planning Inspectorate's decision.

“This is a crucial step in delivering something that residents have been asking for four decades; a scheme that connects the riverside with the town and acts as a magnet for both residents and visitors.

“Currently the site is dominated by a car park that doesn’t allow people to make the most of the river or to enjoy the beautiful riverside views.

“I hope that those who opposed the scheme will put their objections to one side and join with us to deliver a regenerated heart for Twickenham.”

The scheme will deliver housing (including 50% affordable by habitable rooms), office space, shops, a café and pub/restaurant and plenty of open space. The open space includes relocating the Diamond Jubilee Gardens into the centre of the proposed development, with event space, an exciting children’s play area and pétanque pitches as well as terraced lawns, planting and trees. Access to and use of the river will be improved via a pontoon and boat storage.

The plan also includes public open space along the Embankment, which will prioritise people over cars. It has a flexible space that can be used for events, including markets and fairs. A widened Water Lane will give inviting views from King Street, with improved visibility and accessibility to the Town Centre, including Church Street.

Find out more about the Twickenham Riverside Development scheme.