The project, in Chippenham Road, will deliver 138 new homes as part of phase two of Havering Council’s 12 Estates joint venture with Wates Residential.
Councillor Graham Williamson, cabinet lead for development and regeneration, said: “The start of this demolition process marks another important milestone in our commitment to deliver high-quality, affordable homes for Havering residents.
“These new homes at Chippenham Road will meet local housing needs, including for young care leavers and residents with disabilities, and help us create vibrant, green neighbourhoods that people are proud to call home.”
The new development will include one- to four-bedroom properties, with a portion designed for wheelchair users and people with other disabilities.
Plans also feature shared green spaces, community gardens, play areas, and allotments.
The demolition will take place in two phases over 24 weeks using quieter, lower-impact techniques, the council said.
Crews will use ‘concrete nibblers’—a crushing method rather than an impact-based one—to reduce noise and vibration.
Environmental monitoring will take place throughout the process, with the council saying work will stop immediately if thresholds are breached.
Dust will be managed using protective screening.
It said working hours, deliveries, and machinery use are being carefully coordinated with residents to keep disruptions to a minimum.
Paul Nicholls, regional managing director for London at Wates Residential, said: “Chippenham Road marks the next step in a transformation across Havering that we’re proud to be delivering with the council.
“With over 370 homes already complete, this partnership is bringing lasting change to communities across the borough.
“We’re taking a careful and respectful approach to demolition, using quieter, lower-impact methods to minimise disruption and show consideration for the people living nearby.”
Similar schemes are already under way in Rainham and Hornchurch.
Across all sites, the programme aims to deliver more than 3,500 new homes, including a significant increase in council-rented and ‘affordable’ housing.
