Spoof Bus Stop Adverts Target Reform UK Over East Havering Data Centre Plans.
Resist Reform says its protest criticises the party’s position on the proposed East Havering Data Centre Campus, which has yet to receive final planning approval.
Spoof advertisements targeting Reform UK have appeared in Havering bus shelters as campaigners challenge the party over plans for a large data centre in North Ockendon. Photographs released by Resist Reform show satirical posters in bus stop advertising panels.
One poster reads “Don’t like the hosepipe ban? Better get used to them”. Another states “Struggling with your utility bill? We don’t give a f*ck”. They are campaign material, not official advertisements or statements issued by Reform UK.
In a press release sent to The Havering Daily on 11 November, Resist Reform said the campaign was intended to draw attention to the East Havering Data Centre Campus and concerns about potential electricity demand, water use and the effect on Green Belt land.
The campaign group alleges that Reform UK promised to oppose the proposed campus before taking control of Havering Council but has since changed its position. That characterisation is the campaigners’ allegation, rather than an established finding.
Resist Reform spokesperson Sam Simons said: “It is a joke that Reform UK can claim to be for the people, but then sell us out once they’re elected.”
What is the status of the data centre proposal?
The proposed campus would be built on Metropolitan Green Belt land near North Ockendon. Havering Council says the scheme could bring jobs and a new ecology park, but it remains subject to the planning process. The council’s Strategic Planning Committee approved consultation on a draft Local Development Order in March 2026; consultation ran into April.
The campaign press release claimed the order had already been granted. However, the council’s published planning information still describes a final decision on whether to adopt it as outstanding. Approval to consult on a draft order is not the same as granting planning permission.
A spokesperson for the No to East Havering Data Centre campaign also called for the proposal to be refused, saying: “We feel it’s imperative for Havering Council, under this new administration, to set an example, demonstrate informed decision-making and sound judgement and refuse this Local Development Order now.”
The latest protest adds to the debate over the scheme, but the planning decision rests with the council’s Strategic Planning Committee rather than with the campaign groups or the posters.
Stay up to date with all of our latest updates and content by following us on our social media accounts!
We have created community pages where we will share our up-to-date stories happening in the area. Add the area closest to where you live.
Discover more from The Havering Daily
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
