Setting the benchmark

There are some invitations that upon their arrival send a flurry of excitement around the team. From the outset Gascoigne West Phase 2 had all the hallmarks of an exemplary new neighbourhood in an area of London that is undergoing an impressive transformation under the purposeful direction of BeFirst, London Borough of Barking and Dagenham’s urban regeneration company.

The work to deliver on the commitments made at the planning stage began for fabrik in 2020, just in time for challenges brought about by a global pandemic. Working for Wates Residential, alongside a superb team of proactive consultants, including White Arkitekter, TP Bennett, MNP and Aecom, we collectively navigated the surprises that tight urban sites can present, to deliver 386 new homes and a 1,500 sqm play area that forms the centrepiece of development.

Testament to the team’s hard work, we are delighted that Gascoigne West Phase 2 has won Place of the Year at the Pineapple Awards for the second year in a row, offering tremendous validation for the efforts of all those that have contributed to the success of the project.  This back-to-back recognition follows last year’s win for Gascoigne East Phase 2, reinforcing the project’s role as a benchmark for inclusive and sustainable urban renewal.

The judges of the 2025 Pineapple Awards described the project as “an inspiring model for urban design and regeneration”, noting “This phase has been thoughtfully stitched into the existing community through new routes and well-used play areas that improve permeability. It demonstrates a strong social awareness, including intergenerational engagement and a particular focus on the needs of women and girls. There is a clear ambition for the place that has developed from the findings of this consultation, which will help this growing place stand the test of time in the long-term.”