We Asked Residents What Changes They Would Like To See Made To Havering-From A New Hospital, Saving Greenbelt, Free Parking And No To A South Street Mosque.

Here’s what you said:

From hospital fears to parking costs and development concerns, hundreds of residents have had their say and the message is loud and clear, frustration is growing across the borough.

We asked Havering residents one simple question, if you could change one thing about the borough, what would it be. The response was overwhelming, with more than 400 comments flooding in and revealing a strong sense of concern about the future of the area.

One of the most common themes was healthcare. Many residents called for a new hospital, voicing deep frustration about current conditions in Romford. Comments highlighted concerns over overcrowding, long waits and facilities that people feel no longer meet the needs of a growing population.

“We need a new hospital that reflects the size of our borough and the number of people living here now,” was a sentiment echoed repeatedly.

Protecting Havering’s green spaces also emerged as a major priority. Residents made it clear they want to see the borough’s Green Belt preserved, with strong opposition to what many see as increasing pressure to build on protected land. Concerns were also raised around the broader debate of greenbelt and so-called brownfield development, with fears that too much is being lost.

Another major frustration is the pace of development compared to infrastructure. Residents pointed to the rapid rise in flat building across Havering, arguing that roads, schools, healthcare and public services are not keeping up.

“We’re seeing more and more homes built but no real improvement in the services we rely on,” one resident said.

Parking charges were another key issue raised time and again. Many residents said rising costs are discouraging people from visiting local high streets, impacting both shoppers and businesses.

“People simply can’t afford to park anymore, it’s hurting our town centres,” was a common concern.

There were also strong views expressed about a current planning application for a large mosque on South Street in Romford. Residents raised objections centred around congestion and pressure on local infrastructure, saying the area is already heavily built up and struggles with traffic.

Across all responses, a consistent theme emerged. Many residents feel that Havering is changing rapidly, but not always in ways that reflect their priorities or improve daily life.

From healthcare and housing to green spaces and the cost of living, the feedback paints a picture of a community that cares deeply about where it lives, but is increasingly worried about the direction things are heading.

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