SWOT Analysis

Group One are now focussing on specific site, the Lower River Lea. The next steps for the group include surveying the site, identifying Eyesore-it images (witty take on a eyesore within our site), identifying a design concept and slogan. The team are also undertaken a Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats. On Wednesday 06/10/10 the group came up with the following initial ideas:

STRENGTHS:
- Location between Stratford and the O2/Canary Wharf; River/Canal
- Presence of River Lea and Canals
- Water and wildlife
- Historical sites (e.g. Bow Locks, Limehouse Cut, Three Mills) and general industrial heritage.
- Aesthetically interesting water levels (tidal thames vs neighbouring canal)
- House boats
- Existing cycle/pedestrian use along accessible parts of the canal/river.
- Part of a green and recreational greenway linked to the green belt
- Very peaceful towards the river/canals

WEAKNESSES:
- Location between Stratford and the O2/Canary Wharf; River/Canal
- Poor access to waterways in a number of places
- Lots of derelict industrial land
- Possible land contamination, given history of industry
- Development right up to waters edge
- Poor river banks conditon: impermeable, concrete not sustainable doesn't enhance wildlife
- Distrupted riparian Ecosystem

OPPORTUNITIES
- Chance to do something differently to Canary Wharf and Stratford developments
- Interesting industrial heritage
- Exciting site visually
- Linear site - natural movement
- Presence of a natural quiet site in a becoming dense and busy urban area
- Chance to uplift the look and feel of the greenway path

THREATS
- Canary Wharf or Stratford development swamping the area
- Urbanisation
- Industrialisation
- Fear of losing the natural and heritage character and identity like the surrounding areas
- Increase in longer pedestrian pathways