In November 2008 Harlow Renaissance and Harlow Council made a formal bid to English Heritage for funding for a partnership Heritage Economic Regeneration Scheme (HERS). Following discussions with local retailers, businesses and Ward Councillors the bid centres on the High Street, Fore Street and Market Street in Old Harlow and contains a mix of residential, retail and service industry properties.
Retail developments throughout Harlow have attracted custom away from the traditional High Street in Old Harlow, and although the High Street was pedestrianised in the early 1970’s, it is now in need of further regeneration.
The proposed partnership scheme would seek to bring back confidence to this heritage area and help to improve the economic performance of retailers and businesses located within the existing Old Harlow Conservation Area. It would compliment the GAF2 project to regenerate Old Harlow, and seek to capitalise on its potential as a tourist attraction for visitors to the town.
If the bid is successful, Harlow Renaissance, Harlow Council and Essex County Council will work with businesses, traders, residents, Councillors, Harlow Civic Society, and English Heritage to determine where the HERS partnership scheme funds would best be used, in compliance with English Heritage criteria. The type of work that might be eligible for funding is likely to include: repairs to shop fronts, residential properties and public houses in sympathy with the Conservation Area; the similar replacement of street furniture and signs; and alterations to car parks.