Asif Khan’s landmark pedestrian boardwalk opens in Canada Water
The 170-metre boardwalk, inspired by the area’s timber trade history, offers a new way to connect with nature and enhances the community-focused transformation of the 53-acre Canada Water site.
Asif Khan boardwalk at Canada Water © Brendan Bell.
A new pedestrian boardwalk designed by renowned architect Asif Khan has been officially opened to the public at British Land’s 53-acre transformation of Canada Water. Located at the heart of this vast regeneration project, the boardwalk offers a striking new feature that enhances the area’s connection to both nature and the surrounding community. The opening event on 2 November, was a vibrant celebration, with performances by the Brixton Chamber Orchestra, and displays from Cirque Bijou’s ‘The Umbrella Project,’ and lively carnival processions.
The 170-metre-long boardwalk takes inspiration from the history of the Surrey Docks and its pivotal role in the timber trade. Its distinctive red timber structure evokes the experience of walking in the footsteps of the deal porters who once carried wood across the docks. The design, which allows people to move between timber planks, offers visitors a unique opportunity to interact with nature, while providing views of the surrounding wildlife habitats. Elevated above the water, the boardwalk allows for people to enjoy the environment up close without disturbing the delicate ecosystem.
Asif Khan boardwalk at Canada Water © Brendan Bell.
Emma Cariaga, British Land’s joint head of Canada Water, expressed her excitement about the project, highlighting the boardwalk as a key feature of the area’s regeneration. It aims to be a central meeting point for both locals and visitors, with plans for nearby cafes and restaurants. Asif Khan, the designer behind the project, reflected on the powerful experience of crossing water, and expressed his hope that the boardwalk would offer moments of pause and reflection for those who use it. Over the next decade, the Canada Water masterplan will continue to reshape the area, with plans for new homes, workspaces, and public spaces, positioning it as a vibrant and connected district in central London.
