Plans for the major redevelopment of a retail park in Romford have been approved by Havering Council despite concerns about infrastructure.
At a strategic planning committee meeting held yesterday (December 7), councillors voted in favour of an outline proposal to build 840 homes on the site of the Seedbed Centre and Rom Valley Retail Park in Rom Valley Way.
The plan also features 3,000sqm of light industrial space, 200sqm of shop, restaurant or café space, 44 parking bays and play areas.
The application was made last December by Rom Valley LLP – a joint venture between the real estate investment firm Portland Capital and Mitheridge, after a previous proposal was withdrawn in 2021 as the council deemed it “unsuitable”.
But planning officers considered that the revised outline for the latest proposal, that would feature blocks ranging from three to 12 storeys high, would result in a “modern, contemporary design that would provide appropriate living conditions for future occupants”.
Councillors present at the meeting highlighted several issues with the application such as pressures on the NHS, parking and affordable housing.
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Councillor Dilip Patel was concerned about the implications of the development on health services. He said: “I can’t see the situation of doctors and GPs improving particularly in Havering. If this development goes ahead, we will be adding at least 4.000 more people."
His view was echoed by Councillors Reg Whitney and Philippa Crowder, who also questioned the medical provision for future occupants.
Councillor Jane Keane, of St Albans ward, was in favour of the development but raised that the plan only offers up to 11 per cent 'affordable' housing, whereas planning policies say this should be at 35pc.
She also said that the development does not include enough open spaces and play areas for children.
Mr Thelwell explained the current outline application incorporates such open areas but if the design is changed to include more family homes that were requested, the developer will have to “seek off site contributions” for play areas.
Councillor Laurance Garrard, who was chairing the meeting, raised concern about parking.
He said: “What worries me is that there are no parking spaces for the visitors, owners and employees of the industrial and commercial units. I just don’t think 44 parking spaces for use by residents is enough."
Cllr Keane argued that the site is close to the town centre with enough amenities.
She added: “I can’t in all conscience vote against something that is going to be good for young people. It is near the town centre, we have a lot of amenities there.”
Cllr Whitney further claimed that the site is overdeveloped, considering some of the other developments being considered around it.
He said: “We are an outer London borough and I think we are going a step too far instead of putting our foot down."
Despite the concerns, the application was approved by the committee with six councillors in favour and one against.
Detailed planning documents for the proposal can be found on this link: https://development.havering.gov.uk/OcellaWeb/planningDetails?reference=P2072.22&from=planningSearch .
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