Barking and Dagenham Council's Cabinet has reconfirmed its approval for the disposal of land at Crowlands Heath Golf Course, paving the way for the development of new affordable homes.
The decision, made at a Cabinet meeting on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, follows a public notice period during which no objections or representations were received regarding the council's intention to sell its freehold interest in the site. The council's freehold interest in the Crowlands Heath Golf Course site is approximately one-third within Barking and Dagenham and two-thirds within the London Borough of Havering. The golf club holds a 125-year lease on the site, with approximately 100 years remaining.
The disposal aims to facilitate the redevelopment of the land into much-needed affordable housing. The developer, Homes for Life, is expected to submit a planning application in April. A further report will be brought to Cabinet in summer 2026 seeking approval of the Regeneration Plans and Project Plans.
Councillor Cameron Geddes, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Development, stated that the disposal would facilitate the redevelopment of new affordable homes and associated facilities together with generating a capital receipt to support the Capital programme.
An independent valuation on behalf of the Council has been commissioned, with the proposed purchaser being liable for the associated costs. This valuation confirmed expectations that the sales price is above the market value of the Council's freehold interest, and any disposal will result in a significant capital receipt for use within the Council's capital programme or to offset the need for further borrowing.
Homes for Life has engaged in public consultation and pre-application meetings with both local planning authorities to inform their planning application. The council's decision to sell the land is conditional on planning permission being secured.
More information on the council's plans can be found in the Public reports pack for the Cabinet meeting on Tuesday, March 24, 2026: Public reports pack Tuesday 24-Mar-2026 19.00 Cabinet.pdf.