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Structure of the Month
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Canary Wharf
Our urbanising world cannot become sustainable until cities work for nature as well as people.
Architect’s drawing of the green spine running through Canary Wharf.
such as paddle-boarding, open water swimming and kayaking. As such, when completed, the area is set to become a sustainable choice for a day of activities, a cultural exploration, musical events, or just a picnic. With the new Crossrail Elizabeth Line station at Canary Wharf, it will be quicker and easier to get there as well. A GLOBAL EXAMPLE OF BEST PRACTICE CWG started out in the 1980s with the aim of developing a sustainable regeneration of West India Docks, a greatly neglected part of the Isle of Dogs, and originally one of the busiest docks in the world. Since then, the company’s approach to development and its persistent high sustainability ratings, have earned it a strong track record; it has more sustainably certified spaces than any other UK developer. Working together with the Eden Project, CWG has ambitious hopes of transforming Canary Wharf into a global example of best practice and innovative ideas for biodiversity. Ultimately, the aim is to showcase the possibility of people living in harmony with nature within dense urban environments. Shobi Khan says: “Our urbanising world cannot become sustainable until cities 50 |
Issue 03 |
June 2022
work for nature as well as people. In partnering with biodiversity expert, the Eden Project, CWG will accelerate thinking and action on how urban environments can be re-designed with nature at the heart.” THE BENEFITS TO THE COMMUNITY Research by psychologists has shown that green spaces have a positive effect on mental health, de-escalating stress levels and lifting down-turning moods. Having parks and gardens, as well as a waterside to enjoy, will no doubt provide a natural an-
Crossrail Elizabeth Line at Canary Wharf.
tidepressant and much needed relaxation in a city environment. How is this being included in these transformative plans? The award-winning architect Glenn Howells, whose approach is specifically to consider the wellbeing of the individuals and the communities using the spaces he develops, has been appointed to assist with the overall masterplan. His presence will ensure the human aspect of this impressive scheme will play a major role during the planning and development phases.