Havering’s population is rising and with it, the pressure on housing across the borough-but do we have the infrastructure to support it?

The London Borough of Havering has seen its population increase from around 237,200 in 2011 to 262,100 in 2021, a jump of roughly 10.5% in just a decade. Estimates suggest the number of residents may now be approaching 276,000 in 2024. This growth brings new challenges for housing, services, and infrastructure.

The borough’s population expansion is being driven by both natural growth — more births than deaths — and migration, particularly international migration, which has risen steadily over the past decade. Families with children now account for a larger proportion of the population, while the older population is also growing, highlighting the need for diverse housing types.

To meet the growing demand, Havering has set ambitious housing targets:

• Annual target under the London Plan (to 2029): 1,285 new homes per year.
• Local Plan 2021 target: 1,262 homes per year.
• Total Local Plan target (2016–2031): at least 12,505 homes across 15 years.

Despite these targets, local councillors and planning officials have warned that housing delivery must keep pace with population growth to prevent shortages and rising property prices.

• Families: The increase in children and young people intensifies demand for family-sized homes.
• Older residents: Growth in the 65+ population requires accessible housing and support services.

However, the key question here is do we have the infrastructure to support this growth? Residents are already seeing longer waiting times for medical appointments, overcrowded hospitals, gridlocked roads.

Housing is being built rapidly, in every possible area, but the support it needs is lacking.

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.