Although locally situated within Essex the ancient Hornchurch parish formed the independent Liberty of Havering and was outside county administration.

Harold Wood ward came under the control of the vestry of Romford chapelry, which also included Collier Row and Noak Hill,[3] however most of the current area of Harold Wood was in the North End ward which remained under Hornchurch parish vestry.

With suburban house building, the population in the area started to rise soon after which prompted changes to the local government system.

The site vacated by the hospital was earmarked for a 470-home housing development which faced fierce opposition from the local population.

It is served by Elizabeth line trains running between Shenfield and Paddington via Whitechapel, Liverpool Street, Farringdon and Tottenham Court Road.

The nearest tube stations to Harold Wood are Upminster Bridge and Hornchurch, both on the District line.