Key Points
- Beloved Essex pub faces demolition: The Alderman pub in Chippenham Road, Havering, could be replaced by 138 new homes.
- Community backlash: Residents fear the loss of a “vital” local hub and an important piece of history.
- Havering Council’s plans: The proposal is part of a borough-wide regeneration scheme to increase affordable housing.
- Public objections: 14 formal objections were submitted against the plan.
- Economic and social concerns: The pub serves up to 100 dedicated customers weekly, including elderly and isolated patrons.
- Council’s stance: While acknowledging the social and economic value, officers say the wider regeneration plan takes priority.
- New housing breakdown: The estate will include London affordable rent, social rent, and shared ownership flats.
- Havering’s housing crisis: The council overspent its housing budget by £6.1 million and faces a £71 million shortfall.
- Romford town centre redevelopment: Plans for 1,000 new homes at Bridge Close are also underway.
Essex Pub Faces Demolition for Housing Scheme Amid Local Opposition
A well-loved Essex pub is at risk of demolition to make way for 140 new homes, sparking a strong backlash from local residents who fear the loss of a community hub and historical landmark.
Why is The Alderman pub facing demolition?
Plans have been submitted to demolish The Alderman pub in Chippenham Road, Havering, as part of the borough’s wider regeneration strategy. The site would be redeveloped into 138 affordable flats, in response to a growing housing shortage.
The Alderman, first earmarked for demolition in August 2023, remains open to the public. However, despite community efforts to preserve the pub, Havering Council argues that keeping the building would “severely compromise” the redevelopment plans.
How has the community reacted to the plans?
Local residents have expressed strong opposition, fearing the loss of what they describe as a “vital” social hub. During a public consultation, 14 formal objections were submitted, highlighting concerns over oversaturation of housing and the impact on the community.
Residents argue that The Alderman serves as a “sanctuary” for elderly and isolated patrons, with up to 100 dedicated customers visiting weekly. They also stress its historical significance, as the pub is named after A.J. Dyer, a key figure in Harold Hill’s pub trade history.
What is Havering Council’s stance?
While the council acknowledges that there is evidence of economic and social value, a recent report concluded that it was “difficult to determine” if the building holds significant heritage importance.
A council officer stated:
“It is recognised that the retention of the building would severely compromise the ability to regenerate the wider site. As such, the proposal to bring much-needed affordable homes to the area would be a material consideration to weigh against the loss of The Alderman.”
What will the new housing development include?
The 138 flats will be available through affordable housing schemes, including London affordable rent, social rent, and shared ownership. The housing breakdown is as follows:
- 56 two-bedroom flats (for four-person households).
- 32 one-bedroom-two-person flats.
- 9 three-bedroom-five-person duplexes.
- 22 one-bedroom apartments for care leavers.
Why is Havering Council pushing for more housing?
Havering is desperate to increase housing stock, after overspending its housing budget by £6.1 million last year. The council is now facing a £71 million budget shortfall and will need to borrow £88 million from the government to cover costs.
In addition to The Alderman site, plans are underway to regenerate Romford town centre, with proposals for 1,000 new homes at Bridge Close.
The fate of The Alderman pub remains uncertain as residents continue their fight to save the venue, while the council pushes forward with its housing expansion strategy.
