Plans for a new DLR station in the Royal Docks have moved closer to being a reality, with a developer filing a planning application for 1,500 new homes on the site.

Developer Arada has presented the first phase of a £2.5 billion Thameside West development, which could see 5,000 new homes built on a brownfield site opposite the O2 Arena.

Around 35% of the homes will be offered as affordable housing, with this first phase to include nearly 1,500 flats across six buildings.

Transport for London (TfL) hopes to construct the Thames Wharf DLR station to serve the new development.

The station could open in time for the first residents to move into the neighbourhood, although an opening date has not been announced.

TfL finished the feasibility design stage of the project in July, and is finalising these designs before looking to secure funding.

Arada has said that the first two buildings of the development will be entirely social rent housing, including three and four-bedroom family homes.

The submitted plans also include a public park, around 1,000 new trees and a kilometre of waterfront, as well as space for cafés and restaurants on some ground floors.

Construction on the site is due to begin in early 2028, according to the Architects' Journal.

TfL has confirmed that no public consultation will be necessary for the construction of Thames Wharf station, but that feedback will be sought on any planning permission applications associated with it.

A spokesperson said: "We are pleased to be working with Arada London and other partners on the design development of a potential new DLR station called Thames Wharf, which would support future growth and regeneration in the Royal Docks.

"This work will help ensure the proposal is sufficiently developed should funding opportunities be secured. While there is currently a significant funding gap for the station, we continue to explore potential external funding sources with partners to support its future delivery."

Tom Copley, Deputy Mayor for Housing and Residential Development, said “Tackling London’s housing crisis is the Mayor’s top priority and Thameside West will help deliver the new homes Londoners deserve, including much needed social rent and family housing.

“By combining affordability, high-quality design and generous green spaces, Thameside West will transform a key brownfield site in the Royal Docks into a thriving new neighbourhood and help build a better, fairer London for everyone.”