A Romford shopping centre has withdrawn plans to divide up some of its premises after being told the applications were not necessary.

But this has only heightened fears from a conservation group, who are unhappy with the owners "disinterest" in discussing the scheme.

The Quadrant, a 1930s arcade in South Street, Romford, submitted plans in October to split three of its shops into smaller premises. 

The centre’s agent, Upp, wrote in a letter accompanying the two applications that the work would enable The Quadrant to “promote a wider retail offer and choice to consumers”. 

But the alarm was raised by both St Edwards ward councillor David Taylor and the Romford Civic Society, with the latter saying there was “not yet enough information for us to judge whether they will be made well and to the benefit of the environment, character and image of Romford”. 

In addition, Havering Council confirmed it would be asking The Quadrant to withdraw both applications, due to planning permission not being necessary for the proposed work. 

The Quadrant has now done exactly that, suggesting it may be looking to proceed. 

Andrew Curtin, chair of the Romford Civic Society, said the move only heightens the group’s concerns. 

He said: “Before the original stylish shopfronts were removed, The Quadrant was an elegant and sophisticated environment in the centre of Romford.   

“We would hope to see that ambience restored as part of this work, but the applicants’ agents have failed to respond to our attempts to make contact with them to find out more about the materials, detailing and design proposed here.   

“This apparent disinterest in discussing their plans only heightens our concerns.” 

While planning permission is not required, a council spokesperson said building regulation consent is still necessary, which checks the plans for compliance with construction standards. 

Cllr Taylor said he hopes that, despite The Quadrant withdrawing its applications, the owners will engage with the community over its designs.

He added he would also "urge them to speak to groups such as Romford Civic Society, about how they can best preserve the heritage of the mall.”

View the applications on Havering Council's planning portal using the references P1476.22 and P1478.22.  

Upp was approached for comment. 

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