Chippenham Road, Harold Hill plans: Lettings policy 'in development'

Cabinet member for housing, Councillor Paul McGeary, told a full council meeting last week (November 20) that details are being worked on to improve sustainability in the community.

Tory councillor Nisha Patel asked a question regarding the submission of planning permission for 138 new 'affordable homes' in Chippenham Road.

She asked whether Cllr McGeary could provide assurance that Havering residents would be given priority to get onto the housing ladder, should planning permission be granted.

A CGI of how the community garden and courtyard area could look in the new development (Image: Havering and Wates Regeneration LLP) Cllr McGeary answered: "I am working with officers to develop the details of our local lettings policy in relation to the proposed development in terms of helping to create a more sustainable community and improve tenancy sustainment.

"It has been the case in relation to other council regeneration schemes, eligible residents who have been relocated away from the site to enable the proposed development at Chippenham Road will have the right of return."

In a supplementary question, Cllr Patel asked whether a time frame will be given for residents to sort their funding and get prepared to come onto the housing ladder.

Cllr McGeary explained that the right of return will be subject to the completion of the development. He also explained that a programme is available to indicate when expected completion may occur.