Havering Council's Planning Committee has approved a retrospective application for a front porch at a restaurant and bar in Romford, concluding it does not harm the Green Belt or local amenity.
The decision, made on Thursday, October 15, 2026, concerned the property at 91 Shepherds Hill. The application was called in by Councillor Darren Wise due to concerns about the accuracy of submitted drawings and site information.
Initial concerns regarding the accuracy of the submitted drawings and site information included that they did not reflect the current condition of the site, specifically regarding the use of the rear garden for car parking, the absence of a refuse bin enclosure, and the presence of roof plant and mechanical equipment not indicated on plans. These concerns were addressed through revised plans received during the application process, which showed parking spaces and refuse storage areas. The case officer noted that while roof plants, ASHPs, masting lights, and cycle parking were not shown, this did not prevent the determination of the application as the focus was on the front porch.
Case officer Kelvin Naicker presented the material planning considerations. He noted that while the porch's facade shape was changed and its height increased from approximately 3.1 meters to 3.4 meters (with width and depth remaining unchanged), its small scale and footprint meant it was not detrimental to the openness of the Green Belt. In this context, 'material harm' refers to developments that significantly impact the Green Belt's openness or the character and appearance of the local area. The design was deemed acceptable and not to have material harm on the character and appearance of the local area. The impact on neighbouring amenity and highways was also considered negligible.
Councillor Wise, speaking on behalf of himself and colleagues, stated that their initial concerns about other aspects of the venue, such as a rear terrace and signage, had either been resolved or were being dealt with separately. The rear terrace was deemed lawful and a certificate of lawfulness was issued for it, along with other developments on the site, as they had been in place for over four years. The application for two internally illuminated fascia signs was still undecided and was to be determined by an officer. He confirmed that regarding the front porch, they had no concerns
and accepted the amended proposal.
The committee voted to approve the application, subject to conditions.
