The proposed scheme includes the demolition of existing homes and the construction of 481 modern new homes, alongside improved retail units and vibrant community spaces designed to revitalise the town centre
The Farnham and Hilldene estate in Harold Hill is one step closer to a major transformation, as Havering Council and development partner Wates have officially submitted a planning application for its redevelopment.
The proposed scheme includes the demolition of existing homes and the construction of 481 modern new homes, alongside improved retail units and vibrant community spaces designed to revitalise the town centre. The plans also ensure that residents who were rehomed to make way for the works will have the right to return once the new properties are ready.
Councillor Graham Williamson, Cabinet Lead for Development and Regeneration, visited the site recently to view a detailed model of the proposed scheme. The model will soon be on public display at Harold Hill Library, giving residents a chance to see what’s planned.
“This redevelopment will not only provide modern housing for local people, but also enhance the quality of life for residents by creating vibrant community spaces, new landscaped public realm and improved retail facilities,” said Cllr Williamson. “Our plans will revitalise the heart of the town into a family-friendly, safe, and sustainable place for local businesses, shoppers, visitors, and residents.”
The planning application follows a successful pre-application and community engagement stage. A resident ballot demonstrated strong local backing, with 96.3 percent of participating voters in favour of the redevelopment—a clear sign of community confidence in the project’s vision.
Paul Nicholls, Regional Managing Director for London at Wates Residential, welcomed the submission. “This project is another important step forward in our journey to bring high-quality, affordable homes to Havering. It’s not just about new buildings. It’s about creating the kind of neighbourhoods people are proud to call home,” he said.
“The proposed development responds directly to local housing need. It also reflects the voices of the community, keeping residents at the heart of the process and laying the foundations for places that will thrive for generations.”
The Farnham and Hilldene redevelopment is Phase Three of the wider £1.2 billion Havering and Wates 12 Estates regeneration programme. Phase One is currently under way, delivering a new Family Welcome Centre on the former Abercrombie Hostel site, while Phase Two at Chippenham Road is expected to begin construction later this year.
Cotleigh Road Local Regeneration
Residents of Cotleigh Road have welcomed recent design updates to two housing blocks set for redevelopment as part of the Waterloo and Queen Street regeneration project in Havering. The updates, presented by Havering Council and its joint venture partner Wates, reflect community feedback and mark a key step forward in the borough’s ongoing transformation plans.
Blocks 9 and 10, part of the wider regeneration scheme, have undergone several design changes following a community engagement session held in February. At a recent follow-up meeting, residents were shown how their suggestions have been incorporated into the plans—demonstrating a collaborative approach between developers and the local community.
Among the revisions are adjustments to building heights to better match the surrounding streetscape, strategic planting of mature trees to increase privacy for existing homes, and repositioned balconies to minimise overlooking and ensure more respectful boundaries with neighbouring properties.
Councillor Graham Williamson, Havering Council’s Cabinet Member for Development and Regeneration, praised the constructive dialogue and the shared commitment to creating a thoughtful and inclusive neighbourhood.
“We greatly appreciate the ongoing input from the Cotleigh Road community, and we are committed to maintaining an open and transparent dialogue throughout the regeneration process,” said Cllr Williamson.
“The changes presented are a direct reflection of the collaboration between the developers and residents, demonstrating our shared goal of creating a well-designed neighbourhood that’s fit for future generations of Havering residents. We look forward to continuing our work together to ensure that this regeneration project not only meets the housing needs of the area but also contributes positively to the local community.”
The regeneration of Waterloo and Queen Street forms part of Havering and Wates’ ambitious 12 Estates project—a £1.2 billion investment to deliver high-quality housing and community improvements across the borough. The focus on working hand-in-hand with residents is a defining feature of the partnership, with local voices helping to guide everything from layout and landscaping to materials and design features.
As planning progresses, the joint venture team has pledged to keep residents informed and involved through every stage. For Cotleigh Road, this means more than new housing—it’s about building trust, maintaining neighbourhood character, and delivering change that reflects the people who live there.
