Former Romford youth centre becomes nine family homes

Drone photographs show construction work in progress to transform the former Century Youth House on Albert Road into nine family homes. The site, which has been vacant since 2018, was formerly a school until 1979 and later served as a pupil referral unit.

Planning Approval and Project Details

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Havering Council granted approval for the redevelopment in December 2025, as confirmed on the council's planning website. The approved plans aim to preserve the historic core of the 1800s building. This involves retaining and refurbishing the main structure while undertaking partial demolition to create four houses. An additional five new homes are being built at the rear of the property.

Mercury Land Holdings, the developer responsible for the scheme, has stated that the project will incorporate eight car parking spaces. The company also indicated that the design is intended to prevent neighbouring properties from being overlooked. Construction was scheduled to commence in early February of this year, although an exact start date was not officially confirmed.

Christopher Hobbs, director at Mercury Land Holdings, commented in February this year, stating, "MLH is pleased to be bringing forward and preserving the historic building but also creating much-needed family homes in Romford." Former councillor Graham Williamson also welcomed the development in December 2024, saying, "Our goal is to create new homes to help meet the housing needs of our residents and we welcome this proposal which is sympathetic to the heritage of the building."

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Current Site Status

Aerial images captured by drone photographer Peter Barrett reveal that concrete foundations have been laid for the five new homes at the rear of the former youth house. The original building, which currently lacks a roof, shows exposed wooden flooring. Building materials such as sand, wood, and bricks are present on site, alongside construction machinery including a fork-lift and digger. Two substantial piles of debris have been noted between the original structure and the new homes.