Regeneration news
Compressor House: a landmark community space in the making
The Royal Docks Team was delighted to welcome over 70 residents, community representatives, and partners to explore Compressor House as its renovation nears completion.
Attendees joined guided tours, learning about the building’s fascinating history as a cold storage facility and its exciting plans for the future.
The Royal Docks’ Economic Development team outlined the vision for Compressor House as a landmark destination and inclusive space where communities can connect, learn and enjoy a showcase of arts, performances and exhibitions, alongside opportunities to engage in digital skills training.
The space will welcome a new operator, set to be announced in Autumn 2025, who will shape its direction in collaboration with the Royal Docks Team, Newham Council, and local communities.
Alongside the tours, guests participated in workshops to share ideas for making the space welcoming and inclusive for all. Ideas ranged from sensory play areas and quiet spaces for SEND children to a wilderness exploratory garden at the back of the building. Community groups and partners were encouraged to share ideas for how they might like to use the space in the summer. With the space available free of charge for community activities and events, we are inviting ideas to make the most of this opportunity. Find more details below.
During the workshops, the Royal Docks Team introduced plans for a ‘Royal Docks Visitors’ Kiosk’ and the installation of a 3D model of the Royal Docks’ development sites, which will be used to host thematic talks. Lots of great feedback was shared, which will help shape our approach.
This event is part of the Royal Docks Community Partner Meetings, held twice annually. Stay connected and sign up for updates HERE
Are you looking for a venue for your summer event or activity?
As part of the soft launch for Compressor House, we’re inviting communities to use the space for a variety of community and cultural events.
If you have ideas or are searching for a venue for a community activity, please complete the following short form by Sunday, 15th June – it should only take 5 minutes to complete https://tinyurl.com/compressorhousesummer
Expressions of interest will help to inform demand and determine the support needed for a summer events programme, which may run for a week or a month, depending on interest. All enquiries will be addressed in June.
What support is available?
The space will be offered free of charge. You will have to cover all other costs that relate to your event.
We aren’t offering specific funding that relates to the space but there are a few funds that may be suitable:
- Neighbourhood Small Grants Programme – Funding for community projects – Newham Council – Deadline: Thursday, 8th June
- Royal Docks Originals: Public Art Series Artist Commission Opportunities | Royal Docks – Deadline, Tuesday, 3rd June
Event planning skills workshop
Enhance your event planning skills at a free workshop with industry specialists Continental Drifts on Friday 13 June 2025, 12 noon – 5pm at City Hall.
The session will cover key areas of event production including creating an event management plan, health & safety and much more.
To register: contact royaldocksevents@london.gov.uk
