Havering Council’s Cabinet last week agreed to appoint Bugler Development Limited to undertake the construction for the new Family Welcome Centre and Health Centre in Harold Hill.
Under the plans, the welcome centre will consist of 74 self-contained dwellings in a variety of sizes, with the largest size accommodating up to eight family members.
The new Family Welcome Centre will replace the borough’s existing hostels.
Designed as a U-shaped building, a landscaped central courtyard will sit at the heart of the centre, creating an attractive and secure space for families including play areas for children.
Internally, the centre will include several shared spaces, such as recreational spaces for residents and families, as well as support facilities and private areas.
A new Health Centre on the ground and first floors, positioned along Hilldene Avenue, will also deliver accessible health services to the wider local community.
We are also exploring if joint health and social care services can be delivered from the new centre.
“Councillor Paul McGeary, Cabinet Lead for Housing and local ward councillor said:
“Providing our homeless families and individuals with a safe, high-quality, and comfortable place to stay while they find permanent homes is so important, and I’m thrilled that we have appointed a contractor to help deliver this scheme for the people of Havering.”
Councillor Williamson, Cabinet Lead for Development and Regeneration said:
“It’s really exciting to see this project gathering pace as part of our continued regeneration of Harold Hill and our commitment to provide affordable housing and supporting infrastructure across Havering.”
The Family Welcome Centre is funded by Havering Council’s Housing Revenue Account (HRA), which is legally required, ring-fenced funding dedicated for housing.
The funding for the construction of the medical centre is from existing budgets and therefore the scheme is unaffected by the Council’s current financial position.