HRL

Harlow Renaissance have set out their Business Plan for the next two years, with a launch at one of Harlow’s most beautiful and yet best kept secrets, Parndon Mill.

The Business Plan develops in detail the company’s plans for the short and medium-term renewal of Harlow and the work it will deliver on behalf of its members through work in six areas:

1. Housing; short-term renewal of existing housing through the regeneration of four neighbourhood centres as well as planning for longer-term growth and the creation of sustainable, cohesive communities
2. Transport; develop transport proposals to tackle existing traffic problems whilst developing the longer-term infrastructure to support growth
3. Town Centre development; bringing forward the development of the northern part of the Town Centre and creating a new sense of vibrancy
4. Education; ensuring that Harlow has the quality of education to support economic growth and an increasingly mixed community
5. Enterprise and employment; developing a Business Incubation Centre to support start-up companies and explore ways of ensuring local benefit from Stansted Airport
6. Branding and promotion; the creation of a branding campaign to promote Harlow as a place to live, work, do business and visit
   

John Spence, Chairman, said:
“Harlow Renaissance is one of nine Local Delivery Vehicles operating in the government’s growth areas. We are working in Harlow through a strong partnership with Harlow Council, Essex County Council, the East of England Development Agency and English Partnerships. We have a commitment to achieving long term gains for Harlow whilst preserving the best of the town’s past. We will seek to tackle the dichotomy of intense local pride in the town and a poor external image. We look forward to being the catalyst that brings about a step change in Harlow’s fortunes”.

Andrew Bramidge, Chief Executive, said:
“Today we are pleased to be launching the first business plan of Harlow Renaissance Ltd. which outlines our activities over the next two years. Harlow Renaissance is a delivery organisation and so we are focussed on making a real difference on the ground, working within the strategies set by our partners, particularly Harlow Council.”

Parndon Mill is itself a testament to the success of local enterprise and regeneration. Mentioned in the Domesday Book, the Mill continued its intended use until the 1960s when it became disused. It experienced a rapid decline until discovered by a local potter who sought a studio space in Harlow. Sally Anderson’s vision for a creative workspace for local artists lead to the full renovation and renewal of the building, which for over thirty years has now housed artists, craftsmen, designers and architects, alongside a small public gallery.

Over one hundred and sixty guests attended the launch event. The high level of attendance and diversity of companies and organisations was a strong indication of the momentum building and commitment to the renewal of Harlow. Guests included developers, architects and building consultancy companies from outside Harlow alongside Harlow Health Centres Trust, Harlow College, local Tenants Associations, the Environment Agency, British Waterways and local arts and sports organisations.