Havering Council is planning one of the most ambitious projects to tackle the demand for houses in the Borough. The Housing Regeneration Programme will see an estimated 3,500 new homes created within the next ten years. Approximately £1 billion will be invested to accomplish this, making it one of the biggest local authority led projects not just in London, but across the UK.

The project will see widespread property investment in Havering, including the demolition of around 900 homes to free up space for more high quality ones. Initially a dozen sites, including existing housing estates, will be targeted but this number could rise substantially as the Programme progresses.

Delegates from Havering Council attended the recent MIPIM property event in Cannes to begin exploring technical and commercial approaches. It was a great opportunity for them to take the first steps in the development and see what kind of ideas and value companies could bring to the project.

The work at MIPIM will be followed up with a series of softer market testing events later in 2017. These will be organised by the Council itself and give them more chance to explore different ideas and opportunities.

It is hoped that by the end of 2017 Havering Council will be able to choose a preferred partner for the Housing Regeneration Programme. This would allow work to begin in 2018.

Not all of the initial work has been focused solely on planning. As mentioned some demolition will be needed as part of the property investment in Havering. The Council has acted early to send out notices to residents in redevelopment areas. The aim is to notify them well in advance and to suspend Right to Buy applications. This will reduce the number of obstacles in the future.

The development of Havering and creation of new homes will be fantastic for the area. It is great the Council is investing in housing and looking for ways to meet demands. The project could bring new life to several areas that need regenerating and improving.