Work began today on a �600million town centre scheme, which Newham Mayor Robin Wales has branded a “major milestone” in transforming the borough after the London Olympics.

The Hallsville Quarter is a critical piece in Newham Council’s �3.7billion regeneration programme for Canning Town and Custom House.

The six hectare site will reconnect the areas north and south of the A13 flyover – linking Canning Town Corner with Barking Road and Rathbone Market - with the aim of creating a thriving, accessible and safe town centre.

Phase one of the scheme, worth �70million, is due to be completed in early 2015, and will have a mix of 179 so-called affordable and private residential units.

It also includes a 7,000 square metres Morrisons supermarket expected to generate 300 jobs from fish mongers and bakers to butchers.

The start of construction was commemorated this morning with a groundbreaking ceremony.

Sir Robin said: “After a fantastic year that showcased the changing face of Newham what better way to end it than with the start of this transformative regeneration scheme.

“Hallsville Quarter will be a thriving town centre reflecting our aspirations for the borough and our residents. It will also establish a brand new commercial and residential hub for the whole of East London. This is a huge milestone for the area.”

The entire Hallsville Quarter will have around 1,100 housing units, more than 30,000 square metres of leisure and retail space, along with community facilities and a health centre.

The whole Canning Town and Custom House regeneration programme is set to be completed by 2024 and will see up to 10,000 new homes being build.

It will also feature new pedestrian and cycling routes and 1,100 parking spaces.

The project is a collaboration between Newham Council, Bouygues UK and Bouygues Development and One Housing Group.