Building work has started on a new centre for homeless families, as part of a Harold Hill transformation plan.

The Family Welcome Centre is set to replace Havering's existing hostels -providing 74 self-contained living spaces for families.

These will be a variety of sizes, with the largest accommodating up to eight family members. 

Work started on Monday (July 8) and Havering councillors - including Paul McGeary, cabinet lead for housing and property, Keith Darvill and Mandy Anderson - visited the construction site as part of a 'Meet the Builder' session.

Councillor McGeary said the centre will "help support our most vulnerable families and individuals in our borough".

The welcome centre is designed as a U-shaped building, with a central courtyard, play areas for children and recreational spaces for residents.

As well as these shared spaces, there will also be support facilities and private areas under the plans.

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This is all with the aim of providing an attractive and secure space for homeless families. 

It is part of phase one of the Harold Hill Town Centre Masterplan, which also includes the regeneration of Chippenham Road (phase two) and Farnham and Hilldene (phase three).

The centre is scheduled to open in spring 2026.

Councillor McGeary said: "I look forward to seeing the progress made on site over the coming months."