A planning application has been formally submitted to Havering Council for a major development in Market Place after months of public consultations and pre-application discussions.
The proposals – put forward by Claridge Architects on behalf of Yaelwood Ltd – are for the demolition of the former Debenhams store at 56-72 Market Place and the complete redevelopment of the site.
Planning documents reveal that this involves three proposed blocks, including a 118-room hotel with a rooftop bar for block one.
This first block, which is set to front onto Market Place, would also contain traditional retail shops on the ground floor up to a total of 5,428 sqm of commercial space.
Blocks two and three are proposed to be residential buildings, measuring up to 12 and 14 storeys high and consisting of 155 flats overall.
Block two is aimed specifically at families – featuring 62 units overall, with 44 of these proposed to be three-bedroom apartments.
For both blocks two and three, yet more retail space is planned on the ground floor, as well as a shared garden for residents and a new public plaza, with a freestanding community building in the centre.
The planning documents also set out some intended uses for the commercial space, with a host of potential business types which could occupy these units.
This includes a wine bar, hair salon, cafe/grocers, record shop and a gym.
The planning statement said: “The development will enhance the quality of retail / commercial class E uses on the site and provide a range of town centre uses including a hotel, restaurants, retail, gym and residential.
“A new public square and enhancements to Swan Walk will be delivered and improvements to permeability and access to surrounding sites will be secured that will facilitate the wider regeneration of the area.”
During the consultation period in October 2025, the developer received 91 responses to the proposals, and said 90 per cent of these expressed support for the plans.
According to the planning statement, concerns were raised about safety, lighting and antisocial behaviour, with the applicant committing to improving the lighting and exploring opportunities for youth-focused spaces as a result.
Havering Council is expected to make a decision on the plans by March 19.
