Key Points
- Plans to convert a takeaway into a barbershop feature among the latest batch of planning applications submitted to the London Borough of Havering.
- Applications cover diverse changes of use, extensions, and new builds across Romford, Hornchurch, and other areas in the borough.
- Key proposals include residential extensions, commercial alterations, tree works, and prior approvals for larger home extensions.
- Submissions follow Havering Council’s standard planning portal process, with public consultation periods typically lasting 21 days.
- Decisions rest with council planning officers or committees, influenced by local and national planning policies.
- No specific decision dates provided in initial announcements; applications open for public comments via the council’s website.
Havering (East London Times) January 10, 2026 – Plans to transform a takeaway into a barbershop headline the latest planning applications lodged with the London Borough of Havering, reflecting ongoing commercial adaptations in the borough’s high streets. These submissions, accessible via the council’s planning portal, encompass a range of residential, commercial, and environmental proposals from Romford to Upminster. Local residents and businesses now have opportunities to comment before decisions proceed.
What Are the Main Applications Submitted?
Among the standout proposals, a change-of-use application seeks to convert a ground-floor takeaway at 167 Suttons Lane, Hornchurch, into a barbershop with associated external alterations. This single-storey commercial shift aims to diversify retail offerings in the RM12 area.
Other notable commercial plans include variations to existing permissions. For instance, an application at 592 Southend Arterial Road, Harold Wood, requests amendments to condition 5 of prior approval 23/01339/PAPU3 for the change of use from Class E to three residential flats, adjusting internal layouts.
Residential extensions dominate the list. At 19 Oak Street, Romford, householders propose a part two/part single-storey rear extension alongside a single-storey front extension with a pitched roof. Similarly, 24 Steeple Close, Romford, outlines a two-storey side and single-storey rear extension, loft conversion with rear dormer, and roof alterations to facilitate additional living space.
Which Residential Projects Stand Out?
Further home improvements feature prominently. Number 11 Keswick Avenue, Hornchurch, submits plans for a single-storey rear extension andHip to gable loft conversion with rear dormer. In Upminster, 36 Little Gaynes Lane requests prior approval for a larger home extension, extending 6 metres beyond the rear wall, 3 metres in height, and 3.6 metres overall.
Certificate of lawfulness proposals also appear. At 26 Marlborough Road, Romford, the owner seeks confirmation for a single-storey rear extension measuring 6 metres deep, 2.5 metres high, and 3.2 metres to the eaves, alongside internal and external works. Meanwhile, 35 Leyburn Avenue, Hornchurch, applies for prior approval to convert agricultural land to a paddock for horse stabling, including hardstanding, access track, and parking.
Tree preservation orders draw attention too. Works at 7 Oak Hill, Romford, involve reducing branches on a sycamore tree (T1) by up to 3 metres and thinning the crown by 20 per cent to maintain safety and light access.
How Do Commercial Changes Affect Local High Streets?
Commercial alterations extend beyond the barbershop conversion. At Unit 2, 14-16 Littlelands, Romford, plans propose external alterations to a retail unit, potentially enhancing frontages in a bustling area. The application at 167 Suttons Lane, reported initially by Romford Recorder journalists, underscores adaptive reuse amid shifting consumer habits post-pandemic.
Havering Council’s planning officers review these under policies promoting vibrant town centres. As noted in council guidelines, such changes must demonstrate no adverse impact on neighbouring amenities or highway safety.
What Environmental and Agricultural Proposals Are Included?
Environmental considerations feature in several bids. The prior approval at 35 Leyburn Avenue for equestrian use includes biodiversity enhancements, aligning with the Environment Act 2021 requirements for 10 per cent net gain in habitat.
Demolition plans at The Romford United Football Club site, Cripp’s Farm, for removal of buildings and hardstanding to enable grassland restoration, address legacy industrial uses. This site-specific proposal ties into broader green belt protections.
Advertisement consents also surface. At The Harrow, 229 Pettits Lane North, Romford, one illuminated fascia sign and two non-illuminated signs aim to refresh pub branding without structural changes.
Who Submits These Applications and What Is the Process?
Applications stem from private individuals, architects, and agents. For example, the barbershop conversion at 167 Suttons Lane lists the applicant as Mr A Rahman, with agent details from local planning consultants. Similarly, residential extensions often cite householders like Mr and Mrs S Smith at 19 Oak Street.
Havering Council mandates online submission via the Planning Portal. As per council protocols, valid applications trigger neighbour notifications and site notices, with 21-day consultation periods. Decisions consider material factors like design, access, and sustainability.
When Do Decisions Happen and How Can the Public Respond?
No fixed decision timelines exist, but most non-controversial applications resolve within 8-13 weeks. Complex cases, such as changes of use, may escalate to the Planning Committee.
Public input proves crucial. Residents access full details, including drawings and supporting statements, on the council’s planning explorer. Objections or support must cite planning policies, avoiding personal remarks.
Why Do These Applications Matter to Havering Residents?
These proposals shape Havering’s skyline and streetscapes. The barbershop shift at Suttons Lane exemplifies high street evolution, potentially boosting footfall while raising parking concerns. Residential extensions address housing needs amid London’s affordability crisis, yet risk overdevelopment perceptions.
Council data indicates over 1,500 applications annually, balancing growth with green belt safeguards. As Havering navigates Local Plan reviews, these submissions test policies on brownfield development and heritage preservation.
How Does Havering Council Handle Controversial Plans?
Precedents guide officers. Recent refusals for oversized extensions highlight enforcement of separation distances. Approvals, like loft conversions, often condition materials matching existing properties.
Conservation areas, such as Romford’s town centre, impose stricter rules. The pub sign at The Harrow navigates these, ensuring no harm to character.
What Broader Trends Emerge from These Submissions?
Patterns reveal post-2024 trends: surging demand for home offices via extensions, commercial repurposing amid retail declines, and green initiatives like tree works. Equestrian proposals reflect rural fringes’ pressures.
As reported across local outlets like Romford Recorder and Havering Echo, such batches underscore community engagement’s role. Full lists, validated against council records as of January 10, 2026, invite scrutiny.
