Havering Council Leader Promises Change as First 100 Days Focus on Crime, Fires and Council Finances.
Leader of the Council-Councillor Keith Prince writes his monthly column in the Havering Daily.
I have now set out our new Administration’s first 100-dayplan at Full Council — a clear, practical programme to restorestability, get the basics right and begin delivering visible improvements for residents.
The first 100 days will not solve every challenge facing Havering, but they do matter. They set the tone for how we will work: listening to residents, making sensible decisions, reviewing the Council’s finances, strengthening governanceand focusing on the everyday issues people care about —cleaner streets, safer neighbourhoods, better local services and value for money.
Safety is one of those priorities. Residents have the right to feel safe where they live, shop, work and spend their free time. That is why I want to recognise the work of our Council-funded S92 police officers and the Havering Joint Task Force following the recent robbery at Boots in Hornchurch. Officers responded quickly, a vehicle was intercepted shortly afterwards, five people were arrested and the stolen goods were recovered. That is visible, practical action — and it shows why close partnership working with the police makes a real difference.
Safety also means protecting our open spaces, particularly during this period of hot, dry weather. Like many residents, I have been deeply concerned by the recent grass fires in the Ingrebourne Valley area of Rainham and elsewhere in the borough. These fires place pressure on our emergency services, damage wildlife habitats and green spaces, and understandably cause anxiety for nearby communities.
We are working closely with the London Fire Brigade, the Metropolitan Police and other partners to establish the causes and reduce future risks. The Council is continuing preventative work including litter clearance, grass cutting and vegetation management on council-owned land, while also working with private landowners where firebreaks and responsible maintenance are needed.
But this is a shared responsibility. After prolonged dry weather, even a small spark can spread quickly. Please do not light barbecues or open fires in parks, open spaces or grassland; take care with barbecues at home; dispose of cigarettes safely; take litter home or use bins provided; and report any signs of fire immediately by calling 999. Simple steps can help protect people, wildlife and the green spaces that make Havering special.
Culture plays an important part in that too, because it brings people together, celebrates local pride and helps us enjoy our borough in a different way. Through Havering London, which the Council supports, there is a brilliant programme of events taking place over the summer.
We recently saw the revival of the listed and world-renowned Rom Skatepark, and there is more to look forward to — including The Mega Mega Collection Days at Fairkytes Arts Centre in Hornchurch, where residents can celebrate Romford’s club scene and share memories through posters, tapes, tickets and other memorabilia. Over the August bank holiday, Suburban Legends will bring a spectacular costumed performance to Romford Market – together with an art installation bringing back the famous Romford fountain.
We have also launched free live music at the Bandstand in Raphael Park, giving local musicians and groups the chance to perform in a wonderful setting. These events support local talent, bring families and communities together, and remind us that Havering has a proud cultural life as well as strong local spirit.
In September, I will report back on the progress we have made against our 100-day plan and set out our longer-term vision for the next four years and beyond: creating London’s Super Suburb — a borough that works for residents, supports local businesses, protects what makes Havering distinctive and plans properly for the future.
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