After seven years of development, a draft plan to revitalize Romford has finally been approved by councillors. Havering Council’s cabinet gave the green light to the Romford Masterplan during a meeting on September 18. This 20-year scheme aims to breathe new life into the town center by boosting its economy and retail sector. The plan focuses on enhancing the high street, attracting businesses from both Essex and London, and creating a vibrant and safe night-time economy.
Graham Williamson, the cabinet member for regeneration, described the masterplan as a “blueprint for sustainable growth that respects our rich heritage while paving the way for a dynamic future.” He believes that together, they can shape a Romford that thrives economically, socially, and culturally for generations to come.
One of the key aspects of the plan is the transformation of the market into a space for events. This move aims to bring more foot traffic to the area and create a lively and dynamic atmosphere. Additionally, the masterplan includes proposals to redevelop ‘underutilized’ sites such as car parks, improve safety in the town center, and renaturalize the River Rom.
Council leader Ray Morgon expressed optimism about the potential impact of the masterplan. He believes that it could attract a greater variety of shops, cafes, restaurants, and leisure venues to Romford, enhancing the overall appeal of the town.
To gather feedback from residents and stakeholders, a six-week public consultation will be launched in late September. This consultation will provide an opportunity for the community to share their views and suggestions on the masterplan’s ambitions for the area.
Despite the positive outlook for the masterplan, there have been some controversial proposals, such as the reworking of the ring road into an “urban boulevard.” While the council argues that this transformation would better integrate the town center and local neighborhoods, critics have raised concerns about its potential impact.
Once fully approved, the Romford Masterplan will work in conjunction with the Havering Local Plan, which was adopted in 2021. The Local Plan guides wider development and regeneration projects across the borough, ensuring a cohesive and coordinated approach to urban planning.
The long-delayed nature of the masterplan can be attributed to various factors, including challenges with the Local Plan’s implementation. Former council leader Damian White acknowledged that the setbacks were due to the delayed progress of the Local Plan, which ultimately impacted the development of the Romford Masterplan.
In conclusion, the approval of the Romford Masterplan marks a significant milestone in the efforts to rejuvenate the town center and stimulate economic growth. With a focus on sustainability, heritage preservation, and community engagement, the masterplan sets a promising path for the future of Romford.