The ambitious regeneration of Farnham and Hilldene town centre has taken a significant step forward with the submission of the planning application. The project, led by the London Borough of Havering with Ridge providing client-side Project Management services since RIBA Stage 0, aims to revitalise the area into a vibrant, sustainable, and inclusive community.
A visionary approach to regeneration
Once a politically significant yet beleaguered scheme on the fringes of the Council’s business plan, this project has transformed into a viable, forward-thinking initiative. At its core, the scheme provides much needed affordable homes in the fight against the housing crisis that is crippling councils all over the country with the eye-watering costs of temporary accommodation. To minimise disruption and sustain vital retail rental income, our team has carefully phased the town centre’s transformation, ensuring business continuity throughout the regeneration process.
The masterplan includes the complete demolition of the outdated 1950s estate, excluding the modern library, which will be repositioned as a focal point of the development. In its place, 481 brand-new homes will be delivered, replacing the 117 existing units. Of these, 57% will be affordable by habitable room, with a strong emphasis on family accommodation, catering directly to the borough’s housing needs.
A sustainable and inclusive future
One of the standout features of the project is its commitment to sustainability. The scheme boasts an impressive 95% Biodiversity Net Gain, potentially making it one of the greenest developments in London. Existing trees will be retained, complemented by extensive urban greening initiatives, including flower-rich planting, specimen trees, rain gardens, biodiverse roofs, and permeable paving. The development will also feature a new public square, enhancing the sense of community in Harold Hill.
Additionally, the project prioritises energy efficiency, incorporating Air Source Heat Pumps and Photovoltaic panels to meet energy demands, with the entire scheme designed to achieve Net Zero Carbon.
Thoughtful urban design and community integration
The new ground floor plan will blend public realm, community spaces, and retail outlets to create an engaging, modern shopping and social experience. The retail strategy integrates incubator spaces, anchor stores, and community hubs, fostering a dynamic environment for businesses and residents alike.
Reflecting the rich cultural heritage of East London, the architecture features mural walls, stained brickwork, and heritage-inspired ceramic tiling, drawing inspiration from the area’s historic pie and mash shops, pubs, and cafes. A carefully designed shopfront strategy will pay homage to the estate’s historic retailers, ensuring a strong connection to the past while embracing the future.
A safe and accessible environment
Public safety has been a key consideration, with the Metropolitan Police and Secured by Design officers playing a crucial role in shaping the masterplan. The design eliminates dark corners, enhances passive surveillance, and includes optimal external lighting and CCTV to create a safe and welcoming environment for all.
Active travel is encouraged with a 50% reduction in redundant car parking, widespread electric vehicle charging points, and cycle storage for approximately 1,000 bicycles. Highways infrastructure improvements will enhance permeability, with the partial pedestrianisation of Farnham Road and new through routes to improve accessibility.
Delivering economic and social value
With a total development area of 70,894 sqm and a construction cost of approximately £220 million, this regeneration project represents a significant investment in the community. Extensive consultations resulted in a 96.8% positive residential ballot vote, securing optimal GLA (Greater London Authority) grant funding.
Through meticulous planning and stakeholder engagement, the Farnham and Hilldene regeneration scheme is set to deliver a transformed, sustainable, and buzzing town centre that meets the needs of residents, businesses, and the wider community.
