RIBA Chartered Practice · ARB Registered · East London
Local Architect
in Havering
Havering is London's second largest borough by area and one of its most suburban and rural, encompassing Romford, Hornchurch, Upminster, and significant rural Green Belt. Its strong outer London character, interwar housing stock, and proximity to Essex make it popular with families looking to extend or improve their homes.
What You Need to Know About Havering Planning
Havering Council's planning policies are protective of its suburban character and its substantial Green Belt land. Conservation areas protect historic Romford, Havering-atte-Bower, and other village centres. The council supports well-designed householder extensions and the improvement of its existing housing stock.
Key planning considerations in Havering:
- ✓Substantial Green Belt land
- ✓Rural Green Belt character in north
- ✓Romford town centre
- ✓Interwar housing stock
- ✓Essex proximity
Free Planning Consultation
Not sure what planning permission you need for your project in Havering? Speak to one of our RIBA-chartered architects for free expert advice.
- ✓Free initial planning assessment
- ✓Advice on Permitted Development rights
- ✓Conservation area guidance
- ✓No obligation quote
Conservation Areas & Planning Constraints in Havering
Conservation areas
Havering contains designated conservation areas where certain permitted development rights are restricted, so some external alterations that would be allowed elsewhere may need full planning permission. These include:
Article 4 Directions & permitted development
Within conservation areas, certain permitted development rights are restricted — for example some cladding, roof alterations, larger extensions or outbuildings that would be allowed elsewhere may instead need full planning permission. Individual Article 4 Directions can withdraw further rights on specific streets. We confirm exactly which designations and directions affect your address before any design work begins.
Projects we typically design in Havering
- ✓Two-storey side extensions to semi-detached homes
- ✓Rear and wraparound kitchen extensions
Official sources
Architectural Services in Havering
Our RIBA Chartered Practice provides a comprehensive range of architectural and planning services for homeowners and developers across Havering.
Planning Applications
Full preparation and submission of planning applications to your local authority, including householder applications, prior approvals, and certificates of lawful development.
Architectural Design
Complete architectural design from concept sketches and 3D visuals through to detailed planning and construction drawings tailored to your brief and local context.
Extensions & Conversions
Single and double-storey rear and side extensions, loft conversions, basement schemes, and garage conversions — designed to maximise space and light.
New Build Dwellings
Design and planning for new-build houses and residential developments, from single plots to small residential schemes, using high-performance construction methods.
Building Regulations
Detailed technical drawings and specifications submitted to building control to ensure your project meets all structural and safety requirements.
Planning Advice
Expert pre-application planning advice to understand what's achievable before you commit to a project — saving you time and money from the outset.
Explore our specialist guides to loft conversions, house extensions and new builds.
Nearby Areas We Also Cover
Frequently Asked Questions — Havering Architects
Is my property in a conservation area in Havering?
Havering has designated conservation areas including Corbets Tey, Cranham, Gidea Park and others. Within these areas certain permitted development rights are restricted, so some external alterations that would be permitted elsewhere may need full planning permission supported by design and heritage justification. We confirm your property's designation with London Borough of Havering at the outset and prepare the documents these applications require.
How long does planning permission take?
Most householder planning applications are determined within the statutory 8-week target; more complex or conservation-area applications can take longer. We manage the whole process and liaise directly with the planning officer on your behalf.
Are you RIBA Chartered architects?
Yes. Shorplans Developments is a RIBA Chartered Practice and ARB-registered firm (Reg No. 089055C), so your project meets the highest professional standards and is covered by the RIBA Code of Professional Conduct.
Why Choose Shorplans as Your Havering Architect?
Start Your Havering Project Today
Contact our team for a free consultation about your architectural project in Havering. We'll assess your property's potential and outline the planning route to success.
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