Hornchurch Greenbelt Under Threat: 570 Homes Including Blocks of Flats Planned For Fields Behind Wingletye Lane

Residents of Hornchurch are voicing deep concern over plans to build 570 new homes, including blocks of flats, on the cherished greenbelt fields behind Wingletye Lane and the Dury Falls estate.

These fields, currently farmed and rich with wildlife, are a much-loved community haven. With their winding pathways, mature trees, and peaceful atmosphere, they offer residents a rare escape from the bustle of daily life. Families walk their dogs here, neighbours pause to listen to the birdsong, and wildlife thrives in its natural habitat.

But all of that could change. The site is now under threat as the initial screening process has begun. Reports of diggers on-site and early tree removal have already sparked alarm among locals. The land, once shielded by its greenbelt status, now could face reclassification often downgraded to “grey belt” or disregarded entirely when weighed against the push for large-scale development.

The latest Planning and Infrastructure Bill only adds to residents’ worries, with campaigners arguing it tilts the balance in favour of developers while leaving wildlife, green space, and community voices behind.

Our greenbelt land has lost its protective zone. It feels like every time developers want to build, the rules change in their favour.

The big question now: will Havering Council stand firm against the proposals? And if they do, will the Planning Inspectorate simply overrule them in line with the government’s relentless “build, build, build” agenda?

For many, this fight is about more than housing numbers. It’s about protecting one of the last pieces of wild, open countryside in Hornchurch – a natural refuge that has quietly supported local communities for generations.

For now, the fields remain – but residents fear that unless strong action is taken, another treasured green space will be lost forever.

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