Harold Hill Residents Push Back Against Plans To Demolish Pub And Build More Flats.

Local democracy reporter Sebastian Mann reports.

Residents have pushed back against proposals for almost 140 new flats in Harold Hill, fearing ‘oversaturation’ and the loss of a local pub.

Plans have been submitted to demolish The Alderman pub in Chippenham Road to pave the way for 138 homes.

The pub was first earmarked for demolition back in August 2023, but is still open to the public.

The new estate is part of Havering Council’s overarching plan to ‘regenerate’ the borough and increase its housing stock, but residents say losing the Alderman will harm the community.

The council received 14 formal objections from locals during a public consultation.

It was described as a “vital” part of the community, which serves as a “sanctuary” for all kinds of patrons – including the elderly and isolated residents.

On top of the economic impact, with up to 100 dedicated customers visiting weekly, residents also fear the loss of a “notable aspect of local history”. The venue is named after alderman A.J. Dyer, an historic figure in Harold Hill’s pub trade.

However, the council says it is “difficult to conclude” there is a heritage or cultural value, though it concedes there is “evidence to suggest” an economic and social worth to the building.

A council officer wrote in a report, published this week: “It is recognised that the retention of the building would severely compromise the ability to regenerate the wider site.

“As such it is considered that the proposal to bring much needed affordable homes to the area would be a material consideration to weigh against the loss of The Alderman.”

All 138 flats would be available through ‘affordable housing’ schemes, including London affordable rent, social rent, and shared ownership.

A majority of 56 new flats will be two-bedroom homes meant for four people. The block will also feature 32 one-bedroom-two-person flats and nine three-bedroom-five-person duplexes.

A further 22 one-bedroom-two-person apartments will be allocated to residents leaving care.

Havering is desperate for new housing in the borough after overspending its housing budget by £6.1million last year. It is now facing a £71m budget shortfall for the coming financial year, and will need to borrow £88m from the central government.

The town hall is also developing plans to ‘regenerate’ Romford town centre, which will see 1,000 new affordable homes built across a new estate called Bridge Close.

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