Harlow Council is installing brand new “Welcome to Harlow” signs at every entrance point into the town, replacing old, damaged or missing signs with a fresh design that celebrates Harlow’s heritage and future.
The new “Welcome to Harlow New Town” signs are being installed at the exact boundary points of the Harlow district. Inspired by the elegant style of the Nansledan signs in Cornwall, the design combines Harlow’s 1947 new town roots with a striking Art Deco aesthetic.
Each sign features colourful illustrations of some of Harlow’s most recognisable landmarks, celebrating the town’s unique character and identity. These include iconic sculptures such as Family Group, as well as the Playhouse, Parndon Mill, the Civic Centre, the Adams House clock, St Mary’s Little Parndon Church, the Clock Tower, The Lawn, new council housing developments and the former GSK site – soon to become the new home of the UK Health Security Agency.
Together these elements reflect Harlow’s long-standing reputation as a centre of culture, design and innovation, from its world-renowned public sculptures to its distinctive architectural skyline.
Each sign carries the wording: 'Est. 1947 – a town of aspiration, opportunity and innovation.'
The installation of the signs forms part of the council’s wider programme to support its mission to renew neighbourhoods and strengthen pride in the town.
Councillor Dan Swords, Leader of Harlow Council, said:
“These new welcome signs reflect the spirit of Harlow – a town with a proud past and an exciting future. Many of the current signs are tired or missing altogether, and they don’t give people the warm welcome our great town deserves. And too often they’re not even remotely close to the boundary point.
“These mark the exact boundary points of the Harlow district and is another small but important step in Building Harlow’s Future and showcasing the town and community we are working hard to celebrate.”