A planning application has now been formally submitted to demolish the former Debenhams building in Market Place and replace it with a hotel, apartment buildings and shops.
The hotel – which is proposed to form the main block fronting onto the market – is set to have 118 rooms and a rooftop bar.
Two blocks of flats measuring up to 14 storeys high, are proposed to stand behind it, with retail space underneath.
In response to the plans, many Romford Recorder readers questioned whether the town needs another hotel, especially with a Travelodge and Premier Inn already in Market Place.
The proposed rooftop bar was a selling point for some, although other people were concerned about the views.
Dave Macklin commented on Facebook: “Love a rooftop bar overlooking Romford.
“All my dreams come true.”
Embie Gaimes added: “There’s residential flats opposite so I can’t see rooftop bars happening.”
Many readers believed the emphasis should be on bringing the “shops that people want” into the town centre, as well as community or health spaces.
Priti Mistry said on Facebook: “Let it be a one stop shop where the voluntary sector can be based alongside other healthcare services.
“A community hub where older people can go, warm spaces, activities etc.”
Meanwhile, Ian Cooper commented that one of the shops could be a “health centre”, while there should also be “something […] for the youngsters to do”.
Ell Duncan added: “Other than links to London what would bring people with spending money to a hotel with rooftop bar in Romford?
“Sort out the ever increasing rent on the businesses, get the shops back that people want, quality market stalls, busy nightlife and a dedicated town centre policing team to run out the day and night time creepers.”
Some readers were simply keen that a disused space be redeveloped into something beneficial for Romford.
David Dawson commented on Facebook that the plans are a “great use for a redundant building”, while Tony Roberts said the development is “better than a huge empty concrete thing”.
One reader, however, wanted a return to the past, saying: “Don’t suppose bringing back the cattle market is an option?”
