News for the community, by the community.
Residents fighting the proposed East Havering Data Centre are stepping up pressure on Havering Council, demanding the maximum possible consultation
Havering is singled out as one of the worst-affected boroughs, with four Green Belt and open land sites- Lodge Farm, Baldwins Farm, Benets Road and a proposed data centre in North Ockendon, highlighted as being under threat.
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Eating more fruit and vegetables is one of the simplest ways to boost your health and wellbeing. But as we head to the supermarket, one thing becomes immediately clear: the majority of our produce is wrapped in heavy plastic. From organic apples to sweet long peppers, our fruit and vegetables sit on the shelf tightly sealed, often in layers of packaging.
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Kaleidoscope is currently the only dedicated LGBTQ+ space in Havering, providing monthly community meetups for locals aged 17-24, since it was established in 2022. The success of Kaleidoscope has now led to a new 5-month project aimed at providing a social and creative space for those aged 25+, funded by Havering Council’s ‘Community Chest’. The outcome of this project will be a series of community-designed LGBTQ+ Pride stickers which will be displayed in shop windows around Romford to foster a more welcoming atmosphere for a marginalised community.
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A study launched this week by Pesticide Action Network UK (PAN UK) has found residues of the weedkiller glyphosate and its toxic breakdown product AMPA in English playgrounds raising serious concerns about children’s exposure to potentially harmful chemicals in public spaces.
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Labour councils across London have committed to defending the Freedom Pass in full after strong opposition to proposals that could
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Havering has done it. Our borough has been crowned first place winner at this year’s London New Year’s Day Parade, beating every other London borough in the capital’s biggest and most celebrated annual event.
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Havering has weaker public transport links than many other London boroughs, particularly compared with inner London areas. Large parts of the borough have low public transport accessibility levels (PTAL), meaning many residents are not close to frequent rail, Tube or other rapid transit services. Much of Havering outside key centres like Romford and Upminster scores low on access scales, reflecting limited options for walking or public transport and a reliance on cars.
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Residents in Havering received practical support to reduce energy bills and stay warm this winter, thanks to two Energy Doctors drop-in events held in December at Harold Hill Library Hub and the Low Energy Visitor Centre.
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For pensioners in Havering, the Freedom Pass is a lifeline. Taking it away would isolate older residents and strip them of their independence”-Andrew Rosindell MP.
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As the New Year’s Honours List is announced, Havering is proud to recognise some truly remarkable individuals whose dedication and selflessness make our borough a better place. Behind the scenes, these outstanding members of our community work tirelessly, often without recognition, putting Havering first.
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A major international wellbeing study has delivered a stark warning for the United Kingdom, revealing that the nation is falling significantly behind its global peers when it comes to physical health, happiness, purpose, and general quality of life. The research, carried out by Harvard University, compared 22 wealthy nations and ranked the UK near the bottom for overall wellbeing.
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Five people in Cambridge have been found guilty of burglary and are now awaiting sentencing, following the removal of eighteen beagles from a lab where animals are used for testing purposes. Under UK law, animals used in scientific research are considered property, meaning the removal constituted burglary.
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Anti-Semites are idiots. All racism is idiotic. Anyone reading this who is a racist should stop reading now because they are about to become convinced they were right to be anti-Semitic because this is one angry Jew who is coming after you and your stupidity and your hatred.
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Another prolific shoplifter targeting Havering and Barking & Dagenham has been jailed, following determined work by local neighbourhood officers. Police have also secured a five-year Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) to protect high streets and retail staff across multiple areas, sending a clear warning that repeat retail crime will not be tolerated.
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On December 18, 2025, Havering Council leaders visited Downing Street to submit a petition for fairer government funding, highlighting significant local funding drops and rising service demands, urging a review of outdated funding formulas.
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Residents of Havering have shared their Christmas wishes, revealing their frustrations and hopes for real change in the borough.
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Havering’s very own hero, firefighter Tony Gladman, is gearing up to spread Christmas joy across our borough! 🎄✨
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Winter can take a toll on our bodies, with colds, coughs, and low energy all too common. Nutrition can play a vital role in keeping your body strong, and two ingredients that really shine in this season are turmeric and ginger.
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Welcome to the second edition of the Havering Police’s newsletter. Chief Inspector Routley highlights the tireless work of officers across the borough, with a focus on the impact of Safer Neighbourhood teams in our communities.
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