Work is underway to construct the new headquarters for the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).

The regulator is relocating from Canary Wharf to The International Quarter, a £2.3bn development in Stratford opposite Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.

The project is a joint venture between Lendlease and LCR, and the building will feature a large roof terrace, extensive natural light and internal connecting staircases.

“I’m delighted that construction has started on a new building that will provide a compelling mix of excellent facilities, value for money, sustainability and the right infrastructure to meet our future needs,” said John Griffith-Jones, FCA Chairman.

Ian Crockford, Project Director of The International Quarter at Lendlease, added: “This is another key step in our goal to create the most agile, healthy and efficient business community in the capital.

“Thousands of the FCA’s staff will soon benefit from an office space which will deliver the most advanced thinking in workplace design and set new standards for health and well-being.”

An estimated 1,200 construction jobs will be created on The International Quarter and Newham Council has teamed up with Lendlease to deliver a ten-week training programme to upskill unemployed residents.

“Our excellent employment service Workplace will work closely with the FCA to ensure local residents are able to make the most of the job opportunities created,” added Sir Robin Wales, Mayor of Newham.  

“The FCA is one of a growing number of businesses choosing to make Newham their base. We look forward to working together to make the potential they have seen in the borough a reality.”

The new generation of offices are set to be home to 3,500 FCA staff from mid-2018.