Harlow Council has released aerial photos of Gilden Park which show the quick progress now being made to build new facilities for the community.
Gilden Park residents and the residents’ association supported by the council have been working hard to ensure that these much-needed facilities are provided by developers as part of the section 106 agreement.
The images taken recently show the sports pitches and sports pavilion which are set to be ready for the new season in August and the community centre which is due for completion this June.
Allotments and permanent retail facilities will also be provided.
Councillor Alastair Gunn, cabinet portfolio holder for Garden Town & Planning, said:
“One of our missions is to secure investment for Harlow’s future. The facilities nearing completion in Gilden Park are an example of that in practice and of what we're pushing for from other proposed new developments in and around the town.
"The encouraging progress we're now seeing comes after what, for Gilden Park residents, have been deeply frustrating delays. These are behind us, but Harlow Council has learned from them. This will continue to inform our approach to ensuring the timely delivery of new, improved community facilities in other developments that are being discussed."
The images also show the site for the new school on Old Oak Way which Essex County Council says will be ready in September 2026. A contractor for the construction has been confirmed and building work is due to start this year.
Cllr Gunn added:
"Families in Gilden Park and the wider area have been awaiting clarity on the new Harlowbury Primary school site for a long time, so it’s welcome we now have a firm date for when it will open. Harlow Council will be doing all it can to ensure the September 2026 timetable is kept to."
Images by Brian Thomas photography.
