London Borough of Havering

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Havering population pyramid

London Borough of Havering is a London borough located in East London, forming part of Outer London. It was created on 1 April 1965 by the amalgamation of the former area of the Municipal Borough of Romford and Hornchurch Urban District, which had been part of the historic county of Essex. The borough is named after the ancient Havering-atte-Bower, a royal residence of historical significance located within its boundaries.

History

The history of Havering is rich and dates back to the Saxon period when it was known as Hæferingas, meaning "settlement of the followers of Hæfer". Over the centuries, it evolved from a rural area into a more suburban and urbanized borough. The area has been marked by significant historical events, including the establishment of the Royal Liberty of Havering, which granted the area special privileges including exemption from tolls and the right to administer its own justice.

Geography

Havering covers an area of approximately 43 square miles, making it one of the largest London boroughs by area. It is bordered by the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham to the west, the London Borough of Redbridge to the southwest, Essex to the north, east, and southeast, and the River Thames to the south. The borough is characterized by its suburban development, extensive parklands, and remnants of ancient woodlands.

Demographics

As of the latest census, Havering has a diverse population with a mix of different ethnic backgrounds, although it has a higher proportion of White British residents compared to the London average. The borough has seen steady population growth over the years, with an increase in the number of families and older residents.

Economy

The economy of Havering is supported by a mix of retail, manufacturing, and service industries. The borough is home to several large shopping centers, including the Liberty Shopping Centre in Romford, which serves as a major retail hub for the area. There is also a significant presence of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) contributing to the local economy.

Transport

Havering is well-connected by public transport, with numerous London Underground, London Overground, and National Rail services. The Romford railway station is a key transport hub, providing access to central London and other parts of the country. The borough also benefits from several major roads, including the A12 and the M25 motorway, facilitating road travel to and from Havering.

Culture and Community

The borough boasts a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous theaters, galleries, and museums. The Queen's Theatre in Hornchurch is a notable venue, offering a wide range of performances and community events. Havering also hosts various festivals and markets throughout the year, celebrating the borough's heritage and diversity.

Education

Havering has a strong educational sector, with a variety of primary, secondary, and further education institutions. The borough is home to Havering College of Further and Higher Education, which offers a range of vocational and academic courses.

Governance

The governance of Havering is overseen by the Havering London Borough Council, which is responsible for local services such as education, housing, and waste management. The council is elected every four years, with councillors representing various wards across the borough.

See Also

• List of districts in Havering
• Havering parks and open spaces
• History of London