The two housing schemes are designed to offer tailored, independent living solutions while keeping residents close to their community, family, and essential support services.
Two transformative supported housing schemes in Havering — now officially named Laws Park House and Riverstone House — have welcomed their first residents, marking a major step forward in the borough’s mission to provide high-quality, inclusive accommodation for those who need extra support. Developed and delivered by Havering Council, the two schemes are designed to offer tailored, independent living solutions while keeping residents close to their community, family, and essential support services.
A Safe Haven
Laws Park House, located on the former Mowbrays Close site, offers a new home for six adults with varying degrees of learning disabilities. Each of the six self-contained flats features its own kitchen and bathroom, providing privacy and dignity, while three of the ground floor units are designed to be wheelchair accessible, with level access into a shared garden.
The development also includes communal spaces such as a shared kitchen and lounge where residents can cook, eat, and socialise — fostering a sense of community without compromising individual independence.
Crucially, the new homes prevent the need for out-of-borough placements, allowing residents to remain close to family networks, local services, and social support.
Riverstone House, formerly known as the Mawneys site, provides a supported living environment for eight care-experienced young adults who are on the path toward independent living. With on-site carers available 24/7 — including sleeping facilities for overnight support — the scheme is tailored to help young people gain confidence, life skills, and security as they prepare to take the next step into adulthood.
Homes with People — and Planet — in Mind
Both sites were developed with sustainability at their core. Eschewing gas entirely, the buildings are fitted with electric heat pumps, underfloor heating, and solar photovoltaic panels to reduce emissions and maximise energy efficiency.
Havering Council’s commitment to future-proofing housing stock is evident in these schemes, which offer long-term, sustainable solutions to some of the borough’s most pressing housing challenges.
The sites themselves have undergone thoughtful redevelopment. Originally, Mowbrays Close was set for conventional housing, but after reviewing demand in 2017, the Council shifted its focus to meet the growing need for supported accommodation. This move reflects a flexible, community-driven approach to urban planning — putting care and need at the heart of regeneration.
Support That Doesn’t Stop at Doorstep
The schemes are not just about buildings, but about the wraparound care services that come with them.
Lodge Group Care UK Ltd will operate the Mowbrays scheme (Laws Park House), providing 24/7 care for residents with learning disabilities. Their approach centres on quality of life and building an inclusive environment that empowers residents to live well.
Inclusive Care Support Services will deliver care at Riverstone House, ensuring young adults have the guidance and help they need at all hours.
John Timbs, Managing Director at Lodge Group, said: “We are committed to providing high-quality support services for Havering residents with specific needs. With a focus on enhancing quality of life and promoting independence, Lodge Group strives to create a vibrant and inclusive community for our residents.”
Jason Davey, Construction Director at Marfleet and Blyth, the contractor responsible for both projects, highlighted the local engagement and sustainability focus: “These schemes bring quality supported living to the heart of Havering. We constructed these units on compact, former garage sites near residents’ homes, and we’re grateful for the community’s patience during the process. The outcome is high-standard, energy-efficient accommodation that will serve people in need for years to come.”
A Welcome That Starts Before Move-In
Prospective residents and their families were invited to explore the new accommodation ahead of moving in — a thoughtful step to ease the transition and introduce them to the services and staff available. Meanwhile, nearby neighbours will also have an opportunity to tour the buildings, meet the care teams, and better understand the role these facilities will play in the community.
Councillor Paul McGeary, Cabinet Member for Housing Property, called the new developments a blueprint for inclusive regeneration: “Our goal is to create a welcoming and supportive community where residents can enjoy their independence while having access to the care and assistance they need. This is an exceptional example of how the Council is future-proofing services and homes for residents who need that extra support.”
These developments underscore a wider shift in how local councils are responding to social care and housing needs — blending thoughtful design, sustainability, and community integration to build not just homes, but futures.
