Curating and re-imagining public spaces plays an invaluable part in shaping stronger communities and contributes to healthy economic growth. Driven by this very concept, we have partnered with Havering Arts Council (HAC) as part of our Rom Valley Gardens regeneration scheme in Romford.

Rom Valley Gardens (RVG) is our response to addressing the need for affordable housing, sustainable development, and health-led placemaking. Together with HAC and Impact Developments, one of our operating companies, we intend to transform the brownfield site into 1,010 new homes, in line with Havering Council’s 2019 recovery masterplan. The alliance will adopt an arts and culture-led approach to realise the concept and generate a positive change in the area.‍

Nick Shattock, CEO of Impact Developments, said: 

“We have found a great public art partner in Havering Arts Council. They quickly saw the potential of the site and the opportunity to embed art at the heart of the development.”‍

Havering Arts Council consists of elected officers, individuals representing the arts, and representatives of the London Borough of Havering. The committee supports the cultural life of the borough and encourages the growth and development of local creatives and arts groups.

Under the agreement, HAC will take leadership of invigorating the 7-acre brownfield site, acquired by Impact Developments, and actively advise on the use of vacant spaces. The committee will be tasked with selecting sculptures, street art, paving design, electronic moving images, and the Fourth Plinth (Trafalgar Square) concept for Gateway Art. The newly formed alliance will also center on expanding the public realm and enriching the cultural life through “meanwhile use” activities and exhibitions.‍

Robert Whitton, our Founder and Chairman, said: ‍

“Rom Valley Gardens promises to regenerate the southern part of Romford town centre with a significant investment in new homes, commercial space, and green public spaces. The partnership with Havering Arts Council, greatly supplements our existing development proposals, which will be determined by the town hall by spring next year. Jointly we will ensure that culture and arts lay at the heart of the scheme.”‍

Impact Capital Group is driven by the need to bring about a positive change in the built environment. We understand that a key factor in successful placemaking is not only the need to build, but to regenerate. Together with Havering Arts Council, we intend to curate vibrant public spaces to secure an inspirational future for Romford and its community.