A Harold Wood homecare provider will not have to move after a surprise application for new flats by the site’s landlord was withdrawn. 

Bluebird Care, which provides services in areas including Thurrock and Northwood as well as Havering, was caught off-guard when plans to build four flats at the firm's Church Road premises were submitted by landlord Steve Green in September. 

In documents filed as part of the application, Mr Green said the flats will consist of two one-bed and two two-bed properties, including first-floor extensions. 

A spokesperson for Bluebird Care told the Recorder at the time that the company "had no idea of the landlord's intentions" before this paper got in touch regarding the application. 

On the withdrawal, the spokesperson said they are “very pleased” that the application has been retracted. 

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However, they added: “That said, without knowing the reason for the withdrawal, there remains an element of uncertainty about the future plans for the building.” 

Mr Green was approached for comment. 

View the application on Havering’s planning portal using the reference P1464.22.