Journey with me to North Ockendon. It is the easternmost settlement in Greater London. North Ockendon sits 18 miles east-northeast of Central London.
North Ockendon offers a unique glimpse into a quieter side of London life. It contrasts sharply with the bustling city center. This is because North Ockendon remains a dispersed settlement within the Metropolitan Green Belt.
Historically, North Ockendon was an ancient parish in Essex. That changed in 1936. Today, North Ockendon is the only inhabited part of Greater London outside the M25.
Let’s step back in time. North Ockendon’s ancient parish had an elongated east-west shape. This contrasted with neighboring parishes. Together, they formed a large estate dating back to at least the middle-Saxon period. It might even reach back to Roman or Bronze Age times.
The parish church is dedicated to Mary Magdalene. It was built in the 14th century. This sacred space stands on the site of an earlier church.
In 1894, North Ockendon became a parish in the Orsett Rural District of Essex. A proposal in 1931 suggested a transfer to Purfleet Urban District. Objections arose. By 1933, the decision was to divide the parish. Part went to an expanded Hornchurch Urban District. The rest went to a new Thurrock Urban District.
Purfleet Urban District Council tried to revert to the original plan. They even took their case to the House of Lords. They were not successful. In 1936, most of North Ockendon enlarged the Cranham parish of Hornchurch Urban District. The remainder became part of Thurrock Urban District.
Despite suburban expansion, North Ockendon remained rural. The Metropolitan Green Belt prevented London’s urban sprawl from reaching it.
In 1965, Hornchurch Urban District was abolished. North Ockendon transferred to Greater London. It became part of the London Borough of Havering.
A proposal in 1992 suggested transferring the part of Greater London east of the M25 to Essex. Great Warley would go to Brentwood. North Ockendon would go to Thurrock. Residents strongly opposed the transfer of North Ockendon. They felt more connected to Havering than Thurrock. Great Warley was transferred but North Ockendon remained. It is the only part of Greater London outside the M25.
Did you know Elizabeth Kucinich was born in North Ockendon in 1977? She is the wife of U.S. Congressman and presidential candidate Dennis Kucinich.
North Ockendon is a place of contrasts. It blends historical roots with modern life. The quiet lanes and historical landmarks of North Ockendon offer a peaceful escape.