EXCLUSIVE: Havering’s Local Planning Authority received an unprecedented 78 “Call for Sites” submissions from developers, many eager to build on Green Belt land.

Councillor Graham Williamson Cabinet Lead for Regeneration today writes exclusively in the Havering Daily on the horrendous challenges our greenbelt land is facing under this government and the impact it will have here in Havering.

The Government’s strategic goal is ‘growth’ and, at least initially, it will be in housing development. The latest update to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), aims to accelerate housing delivery to achieve its goal of 1.5 million new homes within five years. 

Furthermore, Deputy PM Angela Rayner’s recent intervention in the Highsted Park Garden Village proposal in north Kent exemplifies the steps she’ll take to decision-making. Just hours before the local planning committee’s decision, she called in the 8,500-home scheme, citing its implications for housing supply, economic growth, sustainable transport, and the natural environment. This last-minute action underscores the Government’s willingness to intervene in local matters to ensure an alignment with national priorities.

The Planning Inspectorate, too, lean towards pro-development decisions as per recent appeal outcomes. However, councils are now finding themselves exposed to escalating appeal costs and the Government has indicated they expect the Inspectorate to support development.

As Havering’s Local Planning Authority, we recently received an unprecedented 78 “Call for Sites” submissions from developers, many eager to build on Green Belt land; some of whom are likely preparing speculative planning applications. This surge reflects the growing pressure on councils to accommodate mandatory housing targets. However, this council recognises that any imposition of housing development must be approached with care. Where development does occur, it should, for example, where possible utilise Grey Belt land rather than Green Belt. 

Our communities priorities are clear. First, any new development, whether forced or otherwise, must come with the necessary infrastructure to support it. From enhanced transport links to expanded healthcare facilities, development must enrich rather than strain our borough. Improved connectivity is critical to ensuring that Havering remains a place where people can live, work, and thrive.

Safety and security are equally paramount. As we grow, so too must investments in community policing, lighting, and public spaces to ensure Havering continues to be a safe and welcoming place for all.

Education is another vital consideration. Additional housing must bring with it better schools, more capacity, and opportunities for lifelong learning to equip our residents for the future. Without these provisions, development risks becoming a burden rather than a benefit.

Lastly, housing in Havering should be orientated towards family-living. The housing in the borough is suburban and this is something I support and want to maintain. I want a bias towards houses, rather than flats. Presently, we largely get the latter. 

We know we will need to find growth for our future generations, but we must control the narrative. By taking proactive steps and shaping the messaging, we can ensure that future developments align with the priorities and aspirations of our community rather than others. 

Stay up to date with all of our latest updates and content by following us on our social media accounts!

We have created community pages where we will share our up-to-date stories happening in the area. Add the area closest to where you live.