Wates has submitted plans to build 138 new homes on land off Chippenham Road and Kings Lynn Drive, were submitted this week.

The homes represent phase two of the Harold Hill Town Centre vision aimed at revitalising the area with high-quality new shops and services, sustainable housing and enhanced public and green spaces, and forms part of the £1.5 billion 12 Estates regeneration programme we are in partnership with Havering Council.

The plans have been submitted following an extensive period of engagement with the local community, including two rounds of public consultation on the Chippenham Road proposals, in July 2023 and again in April 2024.

A range of 1–4-bedroom properties will be made available, each designed to be attractive to smaller and growing families who need more space. A proportion of the new homes will be specially designed for wheelchair users or those with other disabilities and 22 homes will be specially designated for local young people who are preparing to move from care into living independently, providing them with a safe and supportive environment.


Beyond the delivery of the much-needed affordable homes, the new Chippenham Road development has a focus on inclusivity and sustainability across the public realm.

The plans include community and private gardens, allotments for growing, comfortable seating and play areas. These green, accessible spaces, filled with trees, flower beds, bug hotels and bird boxes, will support local wildlife and become the heart of the neighbourhood, bringing different generations together.

Subject to planning approval, works on site will commence with the demolition of the existing buildings in 2025, with construction beginning winter 2025. The first residents are anticipated to move in by mid-2026.

Chippenham Road is Phase Two of the wider regeneration plans for Harold Hill Town Centre, which is being delivered in three phases.

Phase One will see the delivery of a new Family Welcome Centre on the site of the former Abercrombie Hostel. This received planning permission in July 2022 and construction is now underway. The Centre is scheduled to open in Spring 2026.

Phase Three covers the Farnham & Hilldene Estate, with plans to revitalise the heart of the town into as a family-friendly, safe, and sustainable place for local businesses, shoppers, visitors, and residents. The initial consultation concluded in July 2024, with a second round scheduled for autumn 2024. If the plans are consented, work is due to commence in Spring 2026.