Harlow Council's Planning Portfolio Holder, Councillor Alastair Gunn, has confirmed that the council is preparing a formal response to the Latton Priory planning application, focusing on the needs of Harlow residents.
An outline planning application for the proposed Latton Priory development has been submitted to Epping Forest District Council. Public consultation on the submission is due to close on 11 October 2024.
The site, which is located north of Rye Hill Road, falls within the Epping Forest District but would neighbour Harlow's southern border.
The plans have been submitted by Commercial Estates Projects Ltd and Hallam Land and are for up to 1,340 homes.
The application also proposes residential care and supported accommodation, a local centre with a mix of facilities, primary and secondary schools, greenspaces including playing fields, and new highway, cycle and pedestrian routes.
Councillor Alastair Gunn, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Garden Town and Planning, said:
“The proposed Latton Priory development is right on Harlow’s border. Whilst not in the district, it would have a big impact on much of the town. It is important Harlow residents are aware of the application and of their own right to respond to it.
“We at Harlow Council will be submitting a formal response and have been reviewing the application in detail. Our response will be focused on the needs of Harlow residents, on how to secure the best possible outcome for them and the town as a whole.
"As with any major proposed development, many Harlow residents will be concerned about Latton Priory. Now is the time to put those concerns forward. However, we should acknowledge that if developments like Latton Priory can be delivered in the right way, there are ways that it can be beneficial for Harlow.
"That's why our response to the Latton Priory planning application will be about what is best for our town and its residents. That is what we will be focused on, guided by the council’s missions of securing investment for Harlow's future, to rebuild our town and renew our neighbourhoods."
The application (EPF/1793/24) will be considered by Epping Forest District Council’s planning committee.
Details and a full description of the development can be found on the Epping Forest Council website.