Havering has been named the worst place to live in Greater London in a new study….[because of] natural beauty, wellbeing, heritage and culture, schools and jobs, and value for money.1
There are five categories used in this judgment. The article received wide-spread coverage despite the authors being deluded. Havering has two of the very best centres in outer-London. Focusing on the Magnificent Two:, we find regional centres of excellence in very different arenas.
Hornchurch
Hornchurch is the centre of the regional hospitality scene. Its bustling high street is populated by thriving pubs, restaurants, café society and entry level eateries. To the north is the wonderful Queen’s Theatre, which is the centrepiece of the culture quarter. A quality library, the Fairkytes centre, and a grade two listed building in Langtons, which opens on to Langtons Park. Immediately to the east is St Andrew’s church, which is a grade one building The church is an entry point for the War Graves cemetery.
Hornchurch is an unmistakeable urban masterpiece.
Romford
Romford exists in a challenging retail environment. Think of the competition. Lakeside to the east, Westfield to the west and e-commerce. Multi-billion pounds of predatory retail.
Romford is thriving. Why?
The irreducible fact is that people like shopping near to their homes with human contact. Transport is a key ingredient in Romford’s success story. It’s a transport hub for every element in society. Links to all parts of the borough are quick and easy by public transport and, for car drivers, car-parking is guaranteed on busy days.
The principal shopping malls are attracting new activities, which further enhance the allure[CP1] of the town centre. An entrepreneur has opened a cinema for a vote of confidence in Romford.
The worst place in Greater London? Balderdash!
Note
1 Havering named the worst place to live in Greater London | This Is Local London
Politics in Havering 
Too true.,, Havering has much to offer including the communal “ forest” that surrounds it.. the Thames Chase with horse riding, cycleeays & quality walks with refreshment stops… an outdoors pursuit centre & cranham marsh nature reserve as well as several country parks some with visitor centres
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Thank you for your comment.
You are absolutely correct. I focused on Hornchurch and Romford but there are so many things, which are brilliant. Really I needed more space but I have to keep to limits.
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