Silvertown Aquarium, London
2002-ongoing

In 2006, The Zoological Society of London (ZSL) will open a major attraction in the form of the first world-class conservation-led public aquarium. The new aquarium at Silvertown Quays will be built on the principles of conservation and sustainability, and will be a leader in aquatic research and public education. The iconic building, costing £60 million, will be a unique addition to the skyline and a recognisable landmark in London. The objective is to inspire visitors by presenting to them the beauty and wonder of life underwater so that more people will be committed to learning and caring about the aquatic environment.

The Aquarium, a 15,500 square metre building, is reached by a combination of paths and bridges. Its exhibition area is split into four parts - UK, India, Red Sea and South Pacific, which are positioned in a building that reflects the earth's environment in microcosm - land, water, vegetation, air and clouds. Ventilation and climate are controlled by solar energy panels, light intensity sensors and other hi-tech and more traditional methods to give the feel of the actual environment in each region. Parallel with the design process a conservation and research strategy is being developed, reflecting the major conservation issues challenging the aquatic world.

The Aquarium will be built in Silvertown Quays in London's Royal Docks as part of a larger masterplan development project that includes housing, schools and retail outlets. The Docklands Light Railway (DLR) will have a new extension, which will include a station adjacent to the Aquarium site, providing links from the City to the award-winning Thames barrier park. The regeneration of the Royal Docks is a key element in the strategy to revive the eastern part of the city and the Aquarium is central to this. It will act as an urban catalyst by means of being a first-class visitor attraction.