Work and Money

Building work has started on a six-mile network of unused canals and waterways in the Lea Valley Park in East London, with the aim of creating a "water city".

The Thames Gateway Development Corporation (TGDC) hopes that the area will be transformed into a "mini Amsterdam" with waterside housing, shops and 250 hectares of public open spaces. At the moment, it consists of mainly industrial or derelict land.

The TGDC has announced that: "Where the river system flows through built up areas it will be treated like a wide and active street.

"Canals and new canal basins can provide a focus for new mixed-use areas accommodating a blend of creative and light industries, high-density residential development, cafes and bars."

The Corporation has said that environmental improvements, combined with increased investment before the 2012 Olympics, will attract more businesses and residents.

Map of the proposed developments

New life for the canals

The regeneration of the waterways in the Lea Valley, most of which are currently unused or too shallow, begins with the installation of a new lock and flood control structures close to Three Mills, costing £15 million altogether.

The work, which is being carried out by British Waterways, will eventually restore water levels in the canals, allowing boats to travel along them for the first time in 40 years. It is expected to be completed in 2008.

The map on the right shows the proposed developments in the Lea Valley. The light green areas are existing green spaces and the dark green areas will be new public open spaces.

East London reporter Angela Saini filmed bulldozers beginning work at Prescott Lock, and interviewed Peter Andrews, CEO of the London Thames Gateway Development Corporation, and Richard Rutter, British Waterways London Regeneration Manager. To watch her video click on the link at the top right of this page.

angela.saini@bbc.co.uk