Our town of Romford has a rich and storied history as part of Essex, a county known for its unique cultural and social heritage that many of us hold dear in our hearts. Over time, as part of an administrative change, Romford was absorbed into London, causing an identity shift that has been a point of contention for many residents who feel more aligned with Essex than with the hustle and bustle of London.

What we have benefited from joining London is very minimal , however the let-downs we have had are countless. Several high rise flats have been constructed bringing more people to overcrowd our town, that deliver us congestion, fly tipping and littering. Not only this but our taxes mount much higher than the families that live within the Essex boundaries, and those who live in Romford barely use those London services that we always must pay for. Also, the poor leadership of London Mayor Sadiq Khan has brought nothing but higher crime rates whilst areas within the lines of Essex continue to enjoy a more peaceful safer life, where women and girls do not have to fear constantly in public of criminals. It is clear that in 1965 joining London has left a scar that pours with blood but can only be healed by Romford's unity with Essex.    

However, the vibrant community in Romford has long cherished its Essex roots, celebrating a sense of identity and heritage that resonates in our day-to-day lives. From our dialect to local traditions, the essence of Essex runs deep within us. However, being classified as part of Greater London has sometimes blurred these cultural lines, leading to a disconnect between the official status of our town and the identity that so many of us feel.

Economically, socially, and historically, Romford has a stronger affinity with Essex. Many locals commute to Essex for work, interact more with the neighbouring Essex communities, and participate in cultural events that draw upon our shared history. Re-establishing our identity officially as part of Essex will not only re-affirm our cultural connections but also potentially enhance public services tailored to our needs, reflecting the Essex demographic more accurately than they currently do under London.

Furthermore, aligning Romford back with Essex can lead to more representative governance, where policies and initiatives are more in tune with the actual needs and desires of our community. This realignment could lead to improved allocation of resources, support for local businesses, and preservation of our local heritage, which means so much to us all.

As we walk around Romford, as we walk around the rest of London, it is clear in black and white that Romford does not belong in the urban nightmare. The accents are different, the humour is different but most importantly our unity in Romford is strong within our community, something London will never have. As you walk into a pub or a park café Romford will welcome you with dozens of neighbours cheering your name, but London is cold and bitter leaving you with a silence. We don't belong in London this is clear.

Joining this petition is not just about correcting an administrative decision; it is about our collective yearning for identity, our pride in Essex, and ensuring our town's future aligns with its true spirit. With enough support, we can prompt the local government to reconsider this alignment, providing Romford with the community and cultural acknowledgement it so richly deserves. Sign this petition to help reclaim our rightful place in Essex and ensure that our town's identity is preserved for future generations.

 Like our MP Andrew Rosindell has said this is our 'once in a century opportunity', so

 Thankyou and Revive Romford.