Residents, businesses and organisations are invited to have their say on how Harlow should grow and develop over the next 26 years.
Harlow Council has launched a consultation on the draft Town Plan which sets out a proposed vision for Harlow in 2047 when the town is 100 years old.
The council says the consultation is all part of giving residents and businesses more of a say on their town and its future. The council wants the final plan to reflect the ambitions and aspirations of the community.
The plan covers a range of key issues vital to Harlow’s future and views are encouraged on:
- How growth should be managed to meet the town’s needs
- The different types of housing needed
- Addressing climate change and transport infrastructure
- Regeneration of the town centre
- Sports and leisure facilities and green open spaces
- Improving residents’ health and wellbeing
- Neighbourhood regeneration – shopping centres, hatches and estates
- Waste & recycling services and facilities
Councillor Dan Swords, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Regeneration, says that local views are going to help shape a positive vision for the future of Harlow, he said:
“This is the biggest consultation exercise this council has run for many years and it comes at a vitally important time for the town as it recovers from COVID-19. This is everyone’s opportunity to have a say about their town.
“We have a bold, bright and positive vision to make Harlow one of the best towns in Britain to raise your family and to send your children to school; the best place to start a business; the best place to live and to be a place of aspiration, innovation and prosperity for all
“Harlow in 2047 is going to be a lot different to the Harlow of today. There will be a rebuilt town centre with a once-in-a-generation programme of neighbourhood renewal rolled out. Growth will be sustainable, planned and integrated with the existing town and underpinned by Gibberd’s new town principles. There will be a sustainable transport network with residents walking more, cycling more and using public transport systems. The Green Wedge and Green Finger network, as well as biodiversity assets, will have been retained and maintained.
“Harlow will be a world class digital area with ultra-fast broadband. Thousands of new, high-skilled, long-term jobs, apprenticeships and training opportunities will be created. With the UK Health Security Agency located in the town, a modern hospital meeting the town’s healthcare needs, the Harlow Innovation Park and thriving Enterprise Zones, Harlow will be leading the way in health and science.
“This consultation is the start of an ongoing conversation with our residents, businesses and organisations about how Harlow will develop and grow and how we can improve every aspect of the town for everyone. I would urge everyone to have a say on the plan and let us know their views.”
Have your say
You can read a copy of the draft Town Plan on Town Plan consultation page.
Copies of the plan are also available from the Civic Centre, Latton Bush Centre and Harlow libraries during normal opening times.
A survey can be completed on the Town Plan consultation page or comments can be emailed to:townplan@harlow.gov.uk
The latest edition of the Harlow Times magazine also includes a survey which residents can complete and send back.
Views can also be put in writing to: Town Plan, Harlow Council, The Water Gardens, Harlow, Essex CM20 1WG.
The consultation will close on Sunday 16 January 2022.
Ends