Harlow’s town centre is set for a major transformation with the recent submission of a planning application for the £20 million Harlow Arts and Cultural Quarter. This initiative, focusing on the redevelopment of Playhouse and College Square, has received validation from the council’s planning team, with public consultations poised to begin soon.

The project, backed by the Government’s Levelling Up Fund, is a key component in the revitalisation of Harlow town centre, creating a new western gateway. The Harlow Arts and Cultural Quarter will not only augment the current offerings of the Harlow Playhouse but also bring a variety of new and enhanced facilities. These include versatile live performance and exhibition spaces, a café/restaurant, a music school with recording studios, and flexible studio spaces for both commercial and community purposes.

Further enhancements include the relocation of the Gibberd Gallery, a substantial upgrade to the public spaces with a new public square, a pocket-park, and improvements to the Haydens Road underpass. The scheme also entails building 47 high-quality residential apartments.

In an inclusive approach to urban planning, thousands of Harlow residents have contributed to the design of the scheme, offering their input both before and after the government grant was awarded. The full plans are available for public viewing on the council’s planning portal.

This planning application marks the commencement of a dynamic year for the regeneration of Harlow’s town centre. The project follows the demolition of the derelict Occasio House site, with further redevelopment efforts extending to Market Square and surrounding areas, where exciting plans and updates are anticipated in the coming months.

Councillor Dan Swords, Leader of Harlow Council, shared his enthusiasm for the town’s redevelopment, commenting, “We’re kicking off 2024 with a strong start to rebuild our town and rejuvenate Harlow town centre.” He highlighted the Harlow Arts and Cultural Quarter as a crucial phase in the town centre’s redevelopment and invited residents to engage with the ongoing plans at the Discover Harlow Hub in the Harvey Centre.