Harold Hill Mum to Challenge Pub Demolition at Public Inquiry in Fight to Save The Alderman
A Harold Hill mum, disability and SEND campaigner is preparing to take her fight to save one of the area’s last traditional pubs directly to a Planning Inspector, as the future of The Alderman hangs in the balance.
Samantha Jobber, who lives in Harold Hill and works at The Alderman Public House, will speak at a public inquiry on Tuesday 17 November 2026, raising concerns about the potential loss of a much-loved community meeting place.
She will address the Planning Inspector at Havering Town Hall as part of the inquiry into Havering Council’s Compulsory Purchase Order for the Chippenham Road regeneration scheme.
The proposals include 138 affordable homes, including supported accommodation, but would also involve the demolition of The Alderman.
While Samantha recognises the need for affordable housing and investment, she believes the social value of the pub must not be overlooked.
Samantha said:
“I’m not against regeneration or affordable housing. Harold Hill needs investment, but regeneration should improve communities, not remove the places that help hold them together.
“The Alderman is more than somewhere to have a drink. For some people, it’s their social life, somewhere they feel comfortable, recognised and part of the community.
“Working behind the bar, I’ve seen first-hand the friendships and relationships that exist between customers and staff.”
As a disability and SEND campaigner, Samantha is particularly concerned about the impact on older residents, disabled people, neurodivergent individuals and those experiencing loneliness or social isolation.
“Not everybody wants a busy entertainment venue or somewhere with loud music. Some people just want somewhere familiar where they can sit, have a conversation and feel like they belong.
“We talk so much about tackling loneliness, improving mental wellbeing and making communities more inclusive. Yet we’re potentially losing somewhere that already helps achieve those things.”
Although replacement facilities form part of the wider regeneration proposals, Samantha questions whether a new venue could genuinely replace the established relationships and sense of belonging associated with The Alderman.
She added:
“This isn’t about protecting a company’s profits or preventing new homes. It’s about protecting the people and community connections that already exist.
“You can replace bricks and mortar, but you cannot simply replace decades of friendships, memories and relationships.
“Regeneration should be about people, not just buildings, budgets and planning applications.
“Harold Hill deserves investment, but the people who already live here deserve to have their voices heard too. That’s why I’ll be speaking at the inquiry.”
The public inquiry begins at 10am on Tuesday 17 November 2026 at Havering Town Hall, Main Road, Romford.
The inquiry will consider whether the Compulsory Purchase Order should be confirmed. A final decision has not yet been made.
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