15 February 2008
The first step has been taken for a significant investment in the future of Harlow with the announcement today that Stockland Halladale has been granted exclusive preferred developer status by Harlow Council. This agreement is for a six month period in which Stockland Halladale will work closely with Harlow Council and its partners – national regeneration agency English Partnerships, EEDA and Essex County Council - to develop proposals for the regeneration of the Town Centre North incorporating Market Square Quarter and its immediate environment.
Following a tendering process which Harlow Renaissance commenced last February on behalf of Harlow Council, sixteen developers were shortlisted to four, resulting in today’s announcement. This six month period of exclusivity will present the opportunity for all parties to work together to produce outline planning proposals ready for consultation. Harlow Council and Stockland Halladale look forward to working with local people, traders and community groups throughout the planning process. At the end of the exclusivity period there will be a final review and subsequent agreement of the appointment of the preferred developer.
The regeneration of the Market Square Quarter will signify a major step-change for the town, with the potential to transform Harlow into a sub-regional shopping centre with all its associated benefits including the ability to attract new and larger retailers. The redevelopment will also seek to:
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Re-integrate the north side/market square quarter into the existing Town Centre
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Develop a retail led mixed-use development incorporating retail, leisure, commercial units, residential and public spaces
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Develop a significant amount of leisure activity within the scheme to extend the dwell time and increase the evening economy
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Make it easier to get to and move around the centre, for example, by improving the bus station and relocating the central library
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Re-create a sense of place and identity for Market Square Quarter. An added dimension to the project is being provided by the involvement of the County’s lead artist for Harlow playing an active role within the selection process
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Involve public and trader consultation once the developer is formally appointed
There remains an aspiration to provide a new theatre as part of the development which will also be explored during this time. The Joint Leaders of Harlow Council welcomed the agreement with Cllr Tony Durcan stating:
"This is a giant step forward in revitalising Town Centre North. We have all seen the benefits that regeneration can bring with the southern end of the Town Centre being redeveloped a few years ago. Today marks the next stage in Harlow's transformation."
Joint Leader, Cllr Chris Millington, said:
"If we are to continue regenerating Harlow then a key part of that is transforming Town Centre North. It is not just about shopping, it will also bring with it new leisure and culture opportunities and much needed new homes. The benefits regeneration of this area can bring to the whole Town Centre and the town are huge and once completed will help put Harlow on the regional shopping map."
David Lockhart, Executive Chairman of Stockland Halladale said:
“Stockland Halladale has a wealth of experience in redeveloping town centre environments. This represents a flagship project for the Group and is an excellent opportunity for the Company to demonstrate its ability to deliver a project of this scale and importance. We believe that combining the considerable vision of Harlow Council with our retail and residential development experience will ensure that Harlow will have a fully integrated town centre with world class facilities that will enable it to realise its anticipated growth potential.”
It is envisaged that following consultation a planning application will be made during Spring 2009 with work then scheduled to start late 2009/early 2010. In line with Sir Frederick Gibberd’s original masterplan, the redevelopment seeks to retain the vision of the town centre as the heart of the town, acting as a catalyst for the wider town regeneration work and a symbol of a revitalised Harlow.
Simon Bishop, Area Director for English Partnerships said:
“This marks a significant step forward in the regeneration of the town centre. By working in partnership, I am confident we will breathe new life into the heart of Harlow and deliver a vibrant and dynamic area to be proud of.”
From an East of England perspective David Marlow, Chief Executive of EEDA, added:
“EEDA is delighted to be working with partners on this key regeneration project, the transformation of the Market Square Quarter will enable significant retail development, more public spaces and leisure activities within Harlow town centre. It will attract outside investment, create employment opportunities and wealth within Harlow and the sub-region to help the area fulfill its potential. The revitalisation of the Town centre is a strategic step in Harlow becoming an even better place to visit, live and work. This announcement is a significant first step in the project.”
The town centre itself saw an increase in footfall during the Christmas period, against the national decline. With the new Town Centre Development Manager, Richard Dennery, now in post there are fresh plans for the immediate future of the town centre with increased activities and events for all the family including a concert in the Market Square at Easter.