Harlow Council has welcomed a significant step forward in plans for Latton Priory, with an updated consultation response from local NHS bosses confirming the need for a new on-site health centre to support the proposed housing scheme.
Following extensive consultation, the Hertfordshire and West Essex Integrated Care Board (HWE ICB) has submitted a detailed updated response to the planning application for up to 1,340 new homes on Harlow’s border. The ICB has assessed the impact of the development and identified the need for a new health centre to serve the expected 3,216 new residents. This will help protect existing Harlow GP services from additional pressure.
In addition to the new facility, the ICB is also seeking nearly £1 million in contributions towards local Mental Health and Community Healthcare services. These provisions will be secured through a Section 106 legal agreement between the developer and Epping Forest District Council (EFDC).
The council welcomes the constructive engagement between EFDC and the ICB, which reflects a shared commitment to delivering sustainable, integrated healthcare for the area. The update addresses one of the key concerns raised in Harlow Council’s formal objection to the application earlier this year. The council continues to work with EFDC and the developer to resolve other outstanding issues.
Councillor Alastair Gunn, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Garden Town and Planning, said:
“When we officially objected to the Latton Priory application, one of the biggest concerns was the impact on already stretched GP services.
“We’re pleased that, through working together with the NHS and the Harlow & Gilston Garden Town partnership, those concerns have been heard. A new health centre could benefit not only new residents but also the wider community in that part of Harlow.
"There are remaining questions about the planning application. Harlow Council will continue to play our part on behalf of our residents to get them addressed in the best way possible. Additional housing is urgently needed, nationally and locally, but that must be delivered in a way that helps build Harlow's future."