Dear Andrew, about Como Street

Dear Andrew,

I am writing following your comments about the proposed Como Street development.

I welcome the fact that you have now spoken publicly about the concerns residents have over the scale of the scheme. However, I am concerned that the practical engagement residents need is still not happening.

You recently arranged a meeting with residents, but this was organised at very short notice and, crucially, Mercury Land Holdings was not there. That meant residents still did not have the opportunity to put their concerns directly to the developer behind the scheme.

Before that meeting, ward councillors had indicated that they would arrange a meeting involving residents and me. That did not happen. I am now being told by Reform's ward councillors that they do not see the need for a second meeting, and requests for further engagement are being rejected.

I think that is the wrong approach.

Residents have serious concerns about Como Street and they deserve a proper meeting with MLH. A meeting between politicians and residents is useful, but it cannot replace a conversation with the people actually bringing forward the development.

I am therefore asking you to help arrange a further meeting involving MLH, residents and local representatives from across the political spectrum.

Whatever our political differences, Como Street residents should not be caught in the middle of them.

When I was a councillor, I made a point of involving everyone in discussions about important local issues. That included residents, council officers, MLH, councillors from different parties and yourself, even at times when our political relationship was difficult.

I believe the same approach is needed now.

There is also a wider issue. MLH is wholly owned by Havering Council, and the council has significant influence over its plans and funding. If you and Reform councillors believe the current proposal is wrong for Romford, then that influence should be used constructively alongside the planning process.

Residents do not need competing statements or political arguments. They need access to the developer and a serious discussion about whether this scheme can be changed.

I would therefore ask you to support a proper cross-party meeting with MLH and residents, and to encourage the Reform ward councillors to reconsider their refusal to hold a further meeting.

I hope we can put political differences aside and work together to get residents the engagement they deserve.

Yours sincerely,

David Taylor