The Strategic Planning Committee of Havering Council met on Thursday 28 August 2025 to discuss a hybrid planning application for the redevelopment of land at Bridge Close, Romford. The committee resolved to grant planning permission for the development, which includes the construction of up to 1,070 new homes, commercial spaces, a primary school, and community facilities.

Land at Bridge Close, Romford

The committee granted planning permission for a hybrid application at Bridge Close, Romford, which includes full permission for Phase 1 and outline permission for the remainder of the site. The development aims to deliver up to 1,070 new homes, with 35% designated as affordable housing. It incorporates a masterplan approach integrating residential, commercial, educational, and community uses, with a focus on place-making, connectivity, and sustainability. Key features include a new primary school and nursery, flexible community and health spaces, and significant public realm improvements such as a civic square, riverside walkway, and a pedestrian/cycle bridge over the River Rom.

The decision was made following extensive debate, with the final vote being three in favour and three against. The application was ultimately passed on the casting vote of the Chairman, Councillor Reg Whitney.

Key aspects of the development include:

• Housing: The development will provide up to 1,070 new homes, with 35% affordable housing by habitable rooms. The tenure split will be 70% intermediate and 30% social/affordable rent, subject to viability reviews. The mix includes 1, 2, 3, and 4-bedroom units, with a focus on 2 and 3-bedroom properties.
• Community Facilities: The proposal includes a new 3-form entry primary school and nursery. There is also provision for flexible community and health spaces, with a commitment to re-providing or facilitating the relocation of the Havering Islamic Cultural Centre (HICC) and the Romford Ambulance Station (LAS). Concerns were raised by objectors regarding the adequacy and certainty of the reprovision plans for the HICC.
• Design and Public Realm: The development features a masterplan-led approach with a focus on high-quality design, connectivity, and sustainability. This includes a new pedestrian and cycle bridge over the River Rom, a civic square, a riverside walkway, and improved public realm works. The design incorporates tall buildings, with heights up to 14 storeys, which were considered acceptable in this location due to its proximity to Romford Station and the town centre, subject to high-quality design and public realm.
• Transport and Access: The scheme promotes sustainable transport with a largely car-free layout for later phases and improved pedestrian and cycle infrastructure. This includes new crossings and links to public transport. A financial contribution of £150,000 is to be made towards a feasibility study for step-free access at Romford Station.
• Environmental Considerations: The development includes a robust flood risk and drainage strategy, biodiversity enhancements, and aims to achieve a high Urban Greening Factor. Conditions will be imposed to secure ecological mitigation measures and a detailed construction environmental management plan.

Arguments for the proposal highlighted:

• The development aligns with the Romford Strategic Development Area and Romford Area Action Plan, supporting housing delivery and regeneration.
• It addresses a significant need for new homes, including affordable housing, in the borough.
• The scheme incorporates a new school and community facilities, contributing to social infrastructure.
• The design quality and public realm improvements are considered to enhance the area.
• The development is located in a highly sustainable location with good public transport accessibility.

Arguments against the proposal and concerns raised included:

• Concerns were raised by objectors regarding the loss of the Havering Islamic Cultural Centre (HICC) and the perceived inadequacy of the reprovision plans.
• Potential impacts on neighbouring daylight and overshadowing were noted, although considered outweighed by public benefits.
• Concerns were raised by some councillors regarding the height of certain blocks and the impact on the setting of locally listed buildings.
• Transport for London (TfL) raised concerns about pedestrian and cyclist safety near bus operations and the need for further refinement of the construction logistics plan.

Despite the split vote, the committee ultimately resolved to grant planning permission, subject to conditions and the completion of a Section 106 legal agreement to secure planning obligations.