Regeneration news
Compressor House: unique opportunity to operate locally listed building
The Royal Docks Team is inviting Expressions of Interest (EOI) from partner(s) to establish a compelling community, digital, cultural, and commercial vision for Compressor House.
Originally built in 1914, Compressor House served as a cold storage warehouse for Royal Docks cargo. This locally listed building features distinctive red brickwork and an industrial interior, making it an architectural gem with significant potential for transformation. We are looking for partner(s) to take on a lease and repurpose this historic building into a landmark destination within the Royal Docks.
Located on the northern bank of Royal Albert Dock, Compressor House enjoys excellent connectivity. It sits adjacent to Royal Albert DLR station and is just two stops from the Elizabeth Line at Custom House, offering travel times of under 30 minutes to Farringdon and 20 minutes to Stratford. The site is also near Newham Council offices, with London City Airport just a 22-minute walk away.
This is a rare opportunity for an ambitious, forward-thinking organisation to create a venue that celebrates the Royal Docks’ rich heritage while unlocking the building’s potential as a cornerstone of the Royal Docks’ economic and social infrastructure. The successful operator will bring their own unique vision that leverages the building’s character, bringing it to life while capitalising on the growing draw of the Royal Docks as a destination for the capital.
Key considerations include:
- Digital innovation - supporting digital inclusion and aligning with Newham Sparks, the London Borough of Newham’s initiative to position the area as a hub for innovators and investors in the data sector.
- Community Wealth Building - contributing to local economic growth and opportunity.
- Good Growth - advancing the Mayor of London’s vision for sustainable and inclusive economic development.
- Levelling Up Fund (LUF) outcomes - delivering against key priorities outlined in Appendix 1 of the Expression of Interest (EOI) document.
- Digital sector growth - capitalising on emerging opportunities in Newham’s digital sector, including addressing skills gaps in data centres and immersive experiences.
- Heritage & future-focused placemaking - respecting the legacy of Compressor House as one of the few remaining heritage assets in the Royal Docks, while embracing its role as part of the Royal Docks Team’s front of house programme.
The building is undergoing a comprehensive refurbishment scheme, funded by the UK Government, and secured by LBN and is scheduled for completion in Spring 2025.
Further information:
Expression of Interest (EOI) for Compressor House
Deadline: EOIs must be submitted by no later than Monday 24th March 2025 at 10:00am
