Array Essex seeks permission for terrace - built more than 5 years ago

Array Essex, in Shepherds Hill, has applied for retrospective planning permission to build a roof extension, creating a covered terrace at the back of the venue.

However, planning documents reveal that this extension was actually built in March 2020.

The application - put forward by Narch Design and Build on behalf of Ozgur Eriten - shows the terrace as located at the rear of the restaurant, with access through a store room.

It is described as "for staff use".

Havering Council is expected to make a decision on the retrospective plans by March 2.

Array was launched by Love Island star Kem Cetinay and business partner Nadir Gul in 2021, in the former Shepherd and Dog pub.

The Turkish restaurant later shut in July 2023, just months after its opening hours were reduced following allegations of street brawls, drug use and antisocial behaviour outside the venue.

It was then taken over by Fatih Cay - alongside business partner Mr Eriten - in 2024, who told the Recorder last year he is working to a create a new image for the eatery.

The owners told the Recorder that previous issues with antisocial behaviour at Array are "no longer present" and that "clear policies are now firmly in place to ensure that antisocial behaviour is neither seen nor tolerated".

They said: "The retrospective planning application has been submitted transparently and in good faith as part of the owner’s commitment to regularising the site and operating fully in accordance with planning and regulatory requirements.

"It reflects responsibility and openness, rather than disregard."