The Strategic Planning Committee of Havering Council is scheduled to meet on Thursday 17 September 2026. The meeting's agenda includes a significant planning application for a residential-led mixed-use development at the Como Street Car Park in Romford.

Como Street Car Park Redevelopment

A major item scheduled for discussion is the planning application (P0897.25) for the redevelopment of the Como Street Car Park in Romford. The proposal outlines a residential-led mixed-use scheme comprising three blocks of buildings ranging from 3 to 9 storeys, along with three terraced houses. This development would provide 138 residential dwelling units, along with flexible commercial and community floorspace. The plans also include public realm enhancements, landscaping, and associated access, servicing, and parking facilities.

The report pack details that the proposed development aims to deliver a quality development comprising of a satisfactory level of residential accommodation, thereby contributing to the Borough's housing stock. ¹ It is noted that while the development would not provide affordable housing on-site due to financial viability assessments, a review mechanism within a Section 106 obligation is proposed to capture contributions if the financial situation changes. The scheme is described as car-free with the exception of designated blue badge parking spaces.

The report pack also outlines significant financial contributions that would be secured through a Section 106 agreement, including contributions towards health infrastructure (£179,909), education (£852,377), public realm/sustainable transport (£138,000), Active Travel Zone improvements (£40,000), and accessibility measures for Mawney Primary School (£20,000). Further contributions are proposed for carbon offset schemes (£74,812), and legal and administrative costs.

The report pack includes extensive consultation responses from various bodies, including Transport for London (TfL), Havering Council's Education and Highways departments, Environmental Health, Ecology Consultants, and the NHS. Local representation has also been significant, with numerous objections and comments raised concerning infrastructure pressure, traffic and parking, building height and scale, privacy, environmental impacts, and the loss of the car park. Supporters of the development have highlighted its efficient use of brownfield land and the need for additional housing.

The report pack details the planning history and pre-application discussions, noting that the scheme has evolved significantly following reviews by the Council's Quality Review Panel and urban design officers. The proposed materials for the development are described as a combination of red brick with varying bonds and tones, and white accents, drawing inspiration from local Victorian and Edwardian architecture. The report also addresses accessibility, with a commitment to meeting London Plan standards for accessible and adaptable dwellings, including wheelchair user dwellings.

The agenda also includes the approval of minutes from a previous meeting.