Draft:Cable Wharf, Ebbsfleet
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| Cable Wharf | |
|---|---|
Leo's The Red Lion W T Henley Building | |
  Cable Wharf Location within Kent | |
| District |
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| Shire county |
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| Ceremonial county |
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| Region | |
| Country | England |
| Sovereign state | United Kingdom |
| Post town | GRAVESEND |
| Postcode district | DA11 |
| Dialling code | 01474 |
| Police | Kent |
| Fire | Kent |
| Ambulance | South East Coast |
Cable Wharf is a major housing development located on the former AEI Cable Works factory site in Northfleet, Gravesham, Kent. The project is part of the wider Ebbsfleet Garden City development, transforming 28.6 acres of brownfield land along the River Thames into a sustainable, mixed-use community. The development is expected to provide 598 homes, with commercial space for shops and cafes, and includes a new primary school.
History
[edit]The area now known as Cable Wharf in Northfleet, Kent, has undergone significant transformations over the past two centuries, evolving from a Victorian pleasure garden to a major industrial site, and now to a modern residential development.
Rosherville Gardens (1837–1913)
Established in 1837 by entrepreneur Jeremiah Rosher, Rosherville Gardens was a Victorian-era pleasure garden situated in a disused chalk pit along the River Thames. The gardens featured attractions such as landscaped areas, a maze, a lake, and various entertainments, drawing visitors primarily from London via paddle steamers. However, the site’s popularity declined due to factors like the tragic sinking of the Princess Alice steamer in 1878 and the rise of seaside resorts accessible by train. The gardens closed in 1913, and the area later transitioned to industrial use.
W.T. Henley’s Telegraph Works (1906–1959)
In 1906, W.T. Henley’s Telegraph Works Company established a cable manufacturing facility in Northfleet, relocating from North Woolwich. The site included manufacturing plants, research laboratories, and wharf facilities, enhancing its capacity for cable production and deployment. During World War II, the company contributed to military efforts by producing equipment such as degaussing systems for ships and components for Operation PLUTO (Pipeline Under the Ocean), which supplied fuel to Allied forces in Europe. An air raid shelter capable of accommodating up to 2,000 individuals was constructed on-site to protect workers during bombing raids.
AEI and GEC Ownership (1959–1997)
In 1959, W.T. Henley & Co was acquired by Associated Electrical Industries (AEI), and later became part of the General Electric Company (GEC) following AEI’s takeover in 1967. The Northfleet site continued operations under various ownerships until the early 21st century. Cable manufacturing ceased in the early 2000s, and the facility was fully closed by 2008.
Demolition and Redevelopment (2004–Present)
Following the closure of the industrial site, the area underwent significant redevelopment. Demolition of the existing structures began around 2007, with most buildings removed by 2011. The land was leveled by 2013 in preparation for new construction. In 2019, development commenced on Cable Wharf, a residential project by Keepmoat Homes. The development is part of the broader Ebbsfleet Garden City initiative and aims to deliver approximately 598 homes by 2035. Cable Wharf integrates the site’s industrial heritage into its design and community planning.
Development and Design
[edit]The Cable Wharf development is being led by Keepmoat, with a focus on creating energy-efficient homes that will contribute to the creation of a sustainable and vibrant community. The design incorporates modern, environmentally-conscious architecture while honoring the site's industrial past. Key features of the development include:
- 598 Homes: The development will offer a range of housing, including private and affordable units. The homes are designed to be energy-efficient, with a focus on sustainability and reducing carbon footprints.
- Commercial Space: In addition to housing, Cable Wharf will include space for shops, cafes, and other commercial amenities, providing a local hub for the community.
- Primary School: A new primary school, Rosherville Church of England Academy, is being relocated to the site as part of the development. The school is set to accommodate an additional 100 pupils, catering to the growing population in the area.
- Proximity to River Thames: The development is situated along the banks of the River Thames, offering attractive riverfront views and creating a distinctive sense of place.
Sustainability and Regeneration
[edit]Cable Wharf is designed with sustainability at its core. The housing units are built to be energy-efficient, and the development as a whole focuses on creating a green, eco-friendly environment for residents. The regeneration of the former industrial site into a modern residential and commercial space is a key part of the larger Ebbsfleet Garden City initiative, which aims to create sustainable communities.
Community and Amenities
[edit]The Cable Wharf development will include a variety of amenities to serve its residents:
- Retail and Leisure: The inclusion of commercial space for shops, cafes, and other businesses will create a local hub and contribute to the area's vibrancy.
- Educational Facilities: The relocation and expansion of Rosherville Church of England Academy will provide essential educational services for the growing community.
- Green Spaces: The development will incorporate green areas, including parks and recreational spaces, allowing residents to enjoy outdoor activities and fostering a sense of community.
- Transport Connectivity: Cable Wharf benefits from its location near the River Thames and its proximity to Gravesend town centre, with good transport links to London and the surrounding area.
Completion and Future Phases
[edit]The Cable Wharf development is expected to be completed by 2035, with ongoing phases continuing to add new homes and amenities. The development is integral to the regeneration of the Northfleet area and is designed to create a thriving, sustainable community.
Awards
[edit]The Cable Wharf development has been recognized for its commitment to quality and sustainability, contributing to the wider success of the Ebbsfleet Garden City project.
References
[edit]External Links
[edit]- [Ebbsfleet Development Corporation](https://ebbsfleetgardencity.org.uk)
- [Keepmoat](https://www.keepmoat.com/)
- [Rosherville Church of England Academy](https://www.rosherville.kent.sch.uk/)