‘I am very hopeful that early in the New Year we will get good news on Beam Park station’-Margaret Mullane MP

The Member of Parliament for Dagenham and Rainham -Margaret Mullane MP, writes her January column for the Havering Daily.

Its the New Year and at this time of year I think back and take stock of what’s happened and then look forward.

What stays with me as I reflect are the struggles of local families. Particularly those caught up in the housing crisis who have contacted me, desperate for help and also the residents whose lives and health are still being impaired by the ongoing scandal of the fires at Arnolds Field. I give a clear commitment to redoubling my efforts to bring relief to the households facing these struggles.

Looking back over the year there have been some real successes and progress. It’s great to see the Eastbrook Studios at Dagenham East in full production, with jobs for local people. The campaign to save the Dagenham Police Station public front desk from closure was a victory, thanks to great coordinated work with local residents and businesses. The Government putting into law the tool theft sentencing I championed in Parliament, will be a real boost for tradespeople. 

But there’s so much more to be done in 2026. I am very hopeful that early in the New Year we will get good news on Beam Park station. I also want progress with investment plans in new industries on the Dagenham Dock site, previously earmarked for the London wholesale markets. 

On housing, new laws to extend the rights of leaseholders will be introduced and disgraceful, no fault evictions will be ended, removing the threat of homelessness for families living in private rented homes.

Over this year I want to make sure that the investment now going into the NHS starts to deliver real improvements in health care in Dagenham and Rainham.

In parts of Britain we saw malign forces preying on legitimate concerns, trying to ferment tension, division and violence. I set up a Faith Forum in Dagenham and Rainham, for people of all faiths and none, people sharing common values and building better understanding. This has gone from strength to strength and points the way forward.

Overseas’ conflicts continue and resulting humanitarian tragedies have repercussions here at home. We must use every diplomatic means to strengthen international efforts to peacefully resolve these wars. My thoughts and hopes for a peaceful future are with the victims of these conflicts.

Serving Dagenham, Rainham, South Hornchurch, Elm Park and Beam Park as Member of Parliament is an honour that I will always do my utmost to repay in working to improve the lives of all people in the constituency.

Happy New year!

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