Residents Raise Concerns Over Major Green Belt Development Plans Near Havering-How Much Wildlife Would Be Destroyed?

“Together, we must protect our wildlife, our environment, and our countryside before it is too late.”

Residents gathered in Noak Hill on Sunday evening for a community meeting to discuss ongoing concerns around a proposed motorway service area development on Green Belt land near the borders of Havering and Brentwood.

The meeting, organised by a local residents’ group, focused on plans submitted by Moto for two large motorway service areas on approximately 45 hectares of Green Belt land. The proposed development would be located between Brentwood and Navestock, and Harold Hill and Noak Hill, and has been described by campaigners as being comparable in scale to a major retail complex. The application was submitted to Brentwood Borough Council in July 2024 and remains under consideration.

Residents at the meeting raised concerns not only about the loss of Green Belt land, but also about the potential impact on local wildlife and the surrounding area. It was suggested that development on this scale could affect natural habitats, increase traffic, and place additional pressure on nearby communities and infrastructure across neighbouring boroughs.

Attendees heard that Brentwood Borough Council is the determining authority for the application, while the London Borough of Havering is able to provide comments as a neighbouring authority. Residents were told that much of the group’s engagement to date has therefore been directed towards Brentwood.

During the meeting, it was outlined that the application has undergone a number of revisions following feedback from National Highways. These include changes to proposed access arrangements and ongoing discussions around the design and safety of slip roads connecting the development to the M25. It was explained that National Highways is currently undertaking further assessment work, including a road safety audit, with an expected outcome later this year.

Residents were informed that several possible outcomes remain, including refusal of the application, approval, or further escalation to the Secretary of State for consideration. It was also explained that, in some circumstances, decisions of this nature can be subject to further review through established legal processes.

The group highlighted its ongoing efforts over the past two years, which have included community engagement, meetings with local representatives, and participation in consultation processes. It was stated that the group has grown in membership and continues to encourage residents to get involved.

Speakers at the meeting also referenced engagement with elected representatives, including local councillors and the area’s Member of Parliament. It was noted that discussions have taken place regarding the planning process and the potential for further scrutiny at a national level if required.

Funding for the campaign was also discussed, with organisers explaining that contributions from supporters have helped cover costs such as materials and events. Further fundraising may be needed to support continued engagement with the planning process.

Residents were encouraged to take part in the current consultation by submitting their views to Brentwood Borough Council. It was emphasised that public participation forms part of the planning process and allows local perspectives to be considered.

The meeting concluded with an invitation for attendees to remain engaged, contribute where possible, and stay informed as the application progresses through the relevant planning stages.

Wildlife rescue team Harold Hill Deer Aid have openly voiced their objection to this development and told the Havering Daily:

“Harold Hill Deer Aid reaffirms strong opposition to the M25/MOTO Services Proposal, which if tragically goes ahead, will sit on the boundary of Noak Hill, Havering and Brentwood.
Harold Hill Deer Aid today confirmed its attendance at the public meeting held on Sunday 12th April at Victory Hall, Noak Hill, and reiterated its firm commitment to opposing the proposed motorway service station development (Planning Application 24/00874/OUT) between Junctions 27 and 28 of the M25.
Harold Hill Deer Aid stands united with local residents and community groups in resisting plans that would result in the loss of approximately 2 million square feet of precious Green Belt land, a landscape that has long provided vital habitat for wildlife and a natural sanctuary for the surrounding communities of Noak Hill, Harold Hill, and beyond.
This proposed development represents a profound and irreversible threat to the character and ecological integrity of the area. 
The Green Belt is not simply undeveloped land, it is a living ecosystem that supports a rich diversity of species.
The destruction of this land would fragment habitats, displace wildlife, and significantly reduce biodiversity in an already pressured environment.In addition to habitat loss, the environmental consequences are severe. 
A large-scale, 24-hour motorway service station would introduce continuous noise pollution, artificial lighting, and increased air pollution, all of which disrupt natural wildlife behaviours and degrade the quality of life for local residents. Increased traffic and congestion would further contribute to carbon emissions, undermining efforts to address climate change and protect local air quality.
The visual and cultural impact must also not be underestimated. The development would permanently alter the historic rural landscape, replacing open countryside with extensive infrastructure, hard surfacing, and commercial activity. Once lost, this character cannot be restored.
Harold Hill Deer Aid emphasises that cumulative development in the surrounding area has already placed significant strain on local ecosystems.
This proposal would intensify that pressure, pushing wildlife and natural spaces beyond a sustainable threshold.
Harold Hill Deer Aid urges continued community engagement and awareness as efforts to oppose the proposal move forward.
Together, we must protect our wildlife, our environment, and our countryside before it is too late.”

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