Demolition work has begun this week on Chippenham Road in Harold Hill, marking the start of the next phase in Havering Council’s ambitious housing regeneration programme.

The cleared site will make way for 138 new homes, part of a major redevelopment effort under the borough’s 12 Estates regeneration joint venture with national developer Wates Residential.

The Harold Hill project is phase two of the partnership, which aims to deliver more than 3,500 high-quality homes across Havering. The wider programme will see the number of council-rented and affordable homes in the borough more than double.

The new development on Chippenham Road will feature a range of one- to four-bedroom properties. Some of the homes will be specially adapted for wheelchair users and residents with disabilities, helping to ensure inclusive access to housing.

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Alongside the homes, the plans include shared green spaces such as community gardens, allotments, and children's play areas, designed to promote wellbeing and bring residents together.

To reduce disruption to the surrounding neighbourhood, demolition will be carried out in phases using low-impact equipment known as 'concrete nibblers'. These machines crush rather than smash structures, minimising noise and vibration compared to traditional demolition methods.

Live environmental monitoring will be in place throughout the process, with work paused immediately if thresholds are exceeded. Dust control will be managed through protective screening on-site.

The site, like others in the borough undergoing transformation, is registered with the Considerate Constructors Scheme. Works are being closely monitored through regular reviews by Wates, Havering Council, and independent assessors. Construction activities, including deliveries and machinery use, are planned in consultation with residents to keep disturbance to a minimum.