... is a proposal for the redevelopment of 3 canals in London: Regents Canal, Limehouse Cut and Hetford Union Canal, together with River Lea.

 

Historically the canals were heavily trafficked and joined together to speed the movement of raw materials during the Industrial Revolution. The use of the locks facilitated navigation and allowed to overcome large height differences throughout the canals.

 

Today, the canals are virtually unused for their original purpose, as they are nearly exclusive for medium-sized boats. Citizens can only experience the canals by walking around them. Small boats users are reluctant to use the locks as they pose a significant waste of time and water, being highly impractical. The water experience is, therefore, limited to short distances.

 

“Unlocked” proposes an innovative solution in navigating the canals, solving the difficulty posed by the locks with conveyor belts. A smooth transition is reinforced by the “LockNess”:  a new boat capable of self-driving and cleaning the canal during its return journey.

 

Mile End port becomes the main network hub sharing its qualities and lending its form to the smaller subsidiary stops. Citizens now have the freedom to continue sailing or stop and explore various parts of the city.

 

The proposal aims to interconnect the urban fabric and facilitate access to the water. 

The Main Port strives to create a stage around the historical lock, helping to raise awareness about the unique industrial heritage.

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PROGRAMME: passenger port, shops, café, exhibition space + additional public realm

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LOCATION: London, UK

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STATUS: stage 2 - concept design - http://brauic.bucea.edu.cn/english/

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