Transforming heritage into vibrant, sustainable community living
THE ASPIRATION
Reimagining a town centre for the future
The London Borough of Havering set out to deliver one of its most ambitious regeneration programmes — transforming Farnham and Hilldene town centre into a modern, inclusive and sustainable heart of Harold Hill. With a tired 1950s estate, pressing housing needs and a vital retail hub under strain, the brief was clear: deliver real change that balances affordability, business continuity and long-term value. Extensive community consultation and a strong resident mandate called for a bold yet sensitive approach — one that respects local heritage, improves everyday life and drives future economic resilience.
OUR RESPONSE
Project Management that delivers
Appointed from RIBA Stage 0, we have led the project from the ground up, providing full client-side Project Management. We assembled the consultant team, steered the scheme through a complex and politically sensitive planning journey, and developed the residential tenure and retail strategies to meet the borough’s housing and economic priorities.
A phased delivery plan protects key retail trade during construction, maintaining local footfall and rental income. We’ve managed cost plans and cash flow, negotiated consultant fees, progressed securing GLA grant funding and ensured stakeholder alignment across council departments and with the delivery partner, Wates Residential. A 96.3% positive ballot outcome speaks to the strength of our community engagement.
We also worked hand-in-hand with the design team to shape a masterplan rooted in local identity. Architectural details like mural walls, stained brickwork and heritage-inspired tiling celebrate Harold Hill’s cultural fabric — from pie and mash shops to historic retailers — while a bespoke shopfront strategy keeps that connection alive on the high street.
THE RESULT
Homes, spaces and streets that work
The plan delivers 481 high-quality new homes — replacing 117 outdated units — with 57% affordable by habitable room and a focus on much-needed family housing. A reimagined town centre adds new shops, flexible community space and a vibrant public square. Sustainability is built in from the ground up: the scheme achieves Net Zero Carbon, includes air source heat pumps, solar panels, a 95% Biodiversity Net Gain and a new underground refuse system. Safer, healthier streets follow Secured by Design principles, while sustainable travel is encouraged through 1,000 cycle spaces, EV charging and a 50% reduction in car parking.
THE LASTING IMPACT
A legacy of opportunity and belonging
This regeneration is about more than just new buildings. It creates a safe, welcoming and future-ready neighbourhood with lasting benefits. Through thoughtful placemaking, deep community involvement and strong sustainability goals, Farnham and Hilldene is set to become a green, walkable and inclusive town centre — one that reflects Harold Hill’s identity while meeting the challenges of tomorrow.
Find out more about our Project Management expertise at Ridge.
