Harlow - Development Projects
Current Investment in Harlow...
Harlow offers an unparalleled opportunity in close proximity to London, Cambridge and Stansted Airport, which can deliver economic and jobs growth in the private sector.
The area has consistently been identified as a location for both economic and housing growth over the last two decades. This status recognises the unique mix of a sub regional role of Harlow and the entrepreneurial character of Epping Forest and Uttlesford. This combination along with the excellent strategic transportation links of West Essex creates a focus (or functional economic area) of untapped and unparalleled opportunity in close proximity to London.
The West Essex Alliance (WEA) is a business lead sub-regional economic partnership reporting into the South East Local Enterprise Partnership. WEA is tasked with driving opportunities to support and increase the economic prosperity of the West Essex economy with Harlow at the heart of this sub-region.
Harlow Council's Corporate Plan prioritises commitment to regenerating the town and supporting enterprise. The Council's Regeneration Team leads on delivering this agenda and the Harlow Regeneration and Social Inclusion Strategy including ambitious plans for town centre regeneration, housing renewal, supporting enterprise and skills development.
More information about new developments and investment in Harlow...
Planned Developments
Enterprise West Essex @ Harlow
In August 2011 the green light was given for sites in Harlow to be given Enterprise Zone status. Enterprise West Essex @ Harlow consists of two sites, one at London Road, encompassing the largely vacant Nortel site and North East Templefields. The Enterprise Zone aims to cater for those in the Health and Allied Industries sector and potential benefits for businesses may include:
• Business rate exemption during the first five years of the established Enterprise Zone for new businesses.
• Infrastructure improvements
• Relaxed planning laws to promote growth
• The Government will support the creation of superfast broadband within the Enterprise Zone.
Councillor Andrew Johnson, leader of Harlow Council, said: “This Government backing is a great boost for Harlow during these difficult times and shows Harlow is most definitely open for business. Harlow already has a great name in technology and is superbly placed between London and Cambridge, with all the road, rail and air links any company could want. We want to attract and retain businesses in Harlow and support them in their growth whilst providing jobs for local people that match their aspiration. The Enterprise Zone status gives us that opportunity.”
John Spence, Chair of the West Essex Alliance, said: “This is an exciting announcement which reflects the effective partnership between the local authority and businesses of West Essex, and particularly the hard work of Harlow Council staff. But this is just the start; we now need to use the creation of the Enterprise Zone as a means of attracting high grade employment to Harlow.”
