Two car parks in the East London borough of Havering are set to close permanently early next year to make way for the construction of 40 new homes. The move is part of the council's drive to tackle a severe local housing shortage.
Car Park Closures and New Housing Details
The Keswick Avenue car park in Hornchurch will shut in January 2026, making space for six new three-bedroom houses. Its counterpart on Dorrington Gardens will follow in March, with plans to build 34 new homes, a mix of houses and flats, on the site.
Havering Council has labelled both car parks as underused. The planning permission for the Keswick Avenue scheme was granted in April 2025, with Dorrington Gardens approved the following month, even though the latter faced more than 40 objections from the public.
Addressing the Housing Shortage
The decision to redevelop the sites stems from a council report in the summer of 2024, which warned that demand for housing in the borough was "quickly outpacing" supply. The Town Hall first identified car parks as potential development sites back in 2023.
Council Leader, Councillor Ray Morgon, stated: "Delivering new homes for local people is a top priority for our administration, and these developments in Hornchurch by Mercury Land Holdings (MLH) are an important step toward meeting that need."
Other housing schemes have sparked controversy, notably early plans for 137 homes on Como Street, which have faced sustained local opposition over concerns about suitability and pressure on infrastructure.
New Parking Pilot and Alternative Provisions
To mitigate the impact of the closures and support town centre vitality, the council is launching a new parking trial. At Fentiman Way and Appleton Way car parks, motorists will now pay a flat rate of £1 for stays of up to two hours, replacing the previous free 30-minute period.
Cllr Morgon emphasised the council's commitment to local business, saying: "We know how vital it is to support local traders and maintain a thriving town centre. That's why we're working closely with business owners and residents to ensure that the car parking pilot and these closures are managed in a way that keeps Hornchurch accessible and vibrant for everyone."
Alternative parking for Hornchurch visitors and residents will remain available at several locations, including:
- Fentiman Way car park
- Billet Lane car park
- Appleton Way car park
- Car parks at Sainsbury's and Lidl supermarkets
