One of our tasks for 2009/11 is to facilitate a discussion to develop a strong and ambitious vision for Harlow which sets a bold agenda and develops a set of unique propositions for the town. This needs to be done in the context of the final Regional Spatial Strategy and the development of Harlow’s Local Development Framework.
Harlow Renaissance has set the following as aspirations for the next ten years and we will use this as the basis for establishing a deliverable vision:
- Harlow to have secured a reputation for growth, prosperity and creativity with above average levels of Gross Value Added.
- Harlow will be recognised as a model for neighbourhood renewal in terms of integrating the old and the new, setting high standards of design, build and environmental quality.
- Allied to this, Harlow’s town centre will have achieved sub-regional status through its significantly enhanced retail offer, its colour and vitality which attracts large percentages of population from a wide catchment area both day and night.
- Harlow’s original brand values of innovation, creativity and vitality will have been restored and supplemented by its reputation for high quality design and its reputation as a destination.
- Access to and through Harlow will have improved through better infrastructure with higher quality public transport, road and cycleways, completion of a new motorway junction and work underway on the A414 bypass.
- Harlow’s major extension to the east will have been completed, whilst achieving a mixed housing profile across the town.
- Harlow will be a favoured location for business with existing large companies expanding their operations as well as significant inward investment. Our employment land will be in high demand, with high quality jobs are provided for local people, whose skills and education are an attraction for employers. Location, quality of accommodation and other facilities will all be magnets with the town recognised as a good place to do business.
- Education facilities will be highly regarded with the well-established business-oriented University campus fully subscribed and the schools outperforming the average.
Harlow Renaissance has published a Business Plan for the period to March 2011 and through this we will work to deliver short and medium-term renewal as well as long-term growth for Harlow. Our work falls into six areas with the following aims:
Housing
To contribute to the production of a spatial plan for Harlow bringing forward detailed proposals to undertake the transformation of existing estates and, to develop plans for long term growth in the east of the town.
Transport
& Infrastructure
To agree a short and long-term programme, in partnership with the Harlow-Stansted Gateway Transportation Board, to address the transport and congestion issues which face Harlow today and those which will facilitate planned growth.
Town Centre Development
To develop a holistic approach to the development of the town centre that delivers a major step change in quality and also to create increased activity in the town centre in the short-term.
Education
To add value to the existing work of partners in the education sector and, in particular, to increase business involvement in education.
Enterprise & Employment
To secure the growth of a vibrant Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) sector in Harlow and provide increased opportunities for higher-level employment.
Marketing & Branding
To transform the Harlow image, identity and “brand” through building on the town’s strengths and existing civic pride.
More detail on each of these can be found in our Business Plan and also in the relevant project sections of this website.