Havering Council has responded to the announcement from TfL that Gallows Corner will not reopen until spring 2026.
Council leader Ray Morgon said that while it is “encouraging” to finally have a revised timeline, he wanted to express a “deep disappointment” that project will not be completed before the festive period.
Cllr Morgon said: “This news will come as a blow to residents and businesses who have already endured significant disruption for far too long and have told us of their anger at the delays.
“The closure has affected daily life, local businesses, schools, emergency services, and public transport, and has delayed the delivery of the Council’s wider highways programmes.
“The pain and frustration felt across Havering is very real and cannot be understated. ”
He added that the council remains “extremely concerned” about the impact the delays are having on the borough, and is “pushing” TfL for some form of compensation for businesses and residents.
Further clarity will also be sought on a firm end date and “transparent updates” as the project progresses, Cllr Morgon said.
Hornchurch and Upminster MP Julia Lopez also said she will be speaking to London’s deputy mayor about financial support for businesses affected by the Gallows Corner works.
In a statement, Ms Lopez told constituents: “We’ve been awaiting an update from TfL on Gallows with bated breath – we’d been promised one last week and chased again today.
“It’s now dropped – spring 2026.
“I don’t know if this counts as clarity since it could mean anything from March to the end of May so we will continue asking for a more precise date and that this broad new timeline is definitely met.
“I’ll continue to stay in close contact with both TfL and Essex & Suffolk Water to make sure you stay informed and that the project stays on track.”
Scott Haxton, TfL’s director of capital delivery, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to residents and businesses for their continued patience while we carry out these essential works at Gallows Corner.
“We understand how disruptive this has been, and we’re working with our partners to complete the project as quickly and safely as possible.”
