Be First, the development company set up by Barking and Dagenham council in east London to deliver regeneration across the borough, said it planned to build nearly 900 more homes than was first envisaged when the operation was set up two years ago.

The operation, which is chaired by former head of the civil service Lord Bob Kerslake, now aims to build 3,088 homes for the council, which is 880 – 40% – more than it planned when created two years ago.

Be First said around 75% of the total number of homes delivered would be affordable.