Planning approval granted

The proposals to build 56 affordable new homes at Woodward Road have been agreed by Barking and Dagenham’s planning committee.

The plans to build the homes in Dagenham, include redeveloping a locally listed former library, which is currently being used as a furniture workshop.

Councillor Cameron Geddes, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Social Housing, said: “This decision gives the go-ahead for 56 much needed affordable homes for local people in the heart of Becontree and brings a glorious old library back into community use.”

The 56 new homes include 32 one-bedroom, 10 two-bedroom, 1 three-bedroom apartments and 13 three-bedroom houses, with rents starting at £168 per week.

The plans also feature car parking and 108 cycle spaces.

A range of different options are possible for the library and talks are underway with a number of organisations about the potential to put it to community use. Further details will be available in Summer 2020.