Almost 200 shipping containers could be stacked together to create studios and creative workspaces.

The proposals for the Silvertown Quays site would see 193 inter-connected containers and flat packed cabins stacked over three storeys.

These would create 151 artists’ studios and workspaces, connected by a series of stairwells, as well as an exhibition space and retail areas at the ground level.

The temporary development would be in place for up to 60 months while a permanent infrastructure is created.

Planning documents submitted to Newham Council reveal that the development, on a site bounded by Connaught Bridge and North Woolwich Road, would include phase one of the Silvertown Studios project.

The piece of land earmarked

for the temporary studios is

opposite Pontoon Dock DLR station, on the south side of Pontoon Dock itself.

Developers V22 state: “We envision a vibrant work community created using shipping containers and modular buildings to form workshops, commercial units and public facilities.

“Inspired by the docks, the existing pioneers of the brownfield site and the surrounding area, our proposal will create a new temporary neighbourhood with a diverse mix of inhabitants all engaged in the process of production that we hope will act as a catalyst for the permanent development.”

The Silvertown Studios project forms part of a wider seven million sq ft development by The Silvertown Partnership, which encompasses the historic Millennium Mills, and is expected to deliver 3,000 new homes, 50 commercial buildings and 21,000 new jobs.

V22 aims to involve people living and working in the surrounding area throughout the process, and have already held two public meetings.

They state: “The phased timing of the Silvertown Studios development allows for a co-design process to inform the design and growth of the complex, for a greater number of stakeholders and partners to contribute to this exciting development.

“Further consultations and workshops will continue into the summer, in particular around the public realm, landscaping and gardens, and community projects that could partner with us in developing an active and vibrant community at the site.”