London Mayor Sadiq Khan has used his executive powers to take control of the Beam Park Housing development in Dagenham.
The park which sits between two council borders was refused planning permission by Havering Council in March but subsequently approved by Barking and Dagenham Council. Khan’s deputy mayor for planning, regeneration and skills, Jules Pipe will now give a final verdict on the scheme after the Mayor’s call in under section 2A of the Town & Country Planning Act 1990.
In a letter to Barking and Dagenham Council Pipe outlined his support of the project which includes plans for 2,900 homes, 50% of which will be affordable, and two schools to be located between the two councils on the former Ford car factory site.
He said: “In my view the proposed development has potential to make an important contribution to housing and affordable housing supply. The proposed development also has potential to make an important contribution to London’s transport, town centre and public open space network, as well as education, health and social infrastructure.”
In addition the site will have a railway station and up to 56,750 sq ft of supporting uses including retail, healthcare, multi-faith worship space, community uses and open space.
Havering Council opposed the project arguing the height of the buildings would have a negative impact on the area, and questioned whether the schools would be sufficient to meet the demands raised by the development and other committed developments in the area.
The Mayor has assumed the role the planning authority for the development and will give a final verdict on the project shortly.
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