Winter 2020 www.harlow.gov.uk
A magazine about housing and your town
Your essential winter, Christmas and New Year information
CORONAVIRUS
GOT SYMPTOMS? GET TESTED NOW PLAY YOUR PART. PROTECT YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY. Do not leave home, except to get a test. Find out how to get a test at nhs.uk/coronavirus or call 119
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02/06/2020 20:09
Working together for Harlow
Christmas and New Year message of hope Councillor Mark Ingall, Leader of Harlow Council The year 2020 has not been the year any of us planned, nor one we are likely to forget. The global pandemic has dominated our lives. For extended periods we’ve not been able to see family and friends, we’ve all had to make difficult changes to our lives due to restrictions, and tragically, too many of us have lost loved ones. People’s jobs and livelihoods have been and continue to be at risk and our businesses have faced some of their biggest ever challenges. Of course all that has had a huge impact on Harlow. But, what has emerged, and will see us through the uncertain times ahead, is the town’s remarkable strength and community spirit, and we should look forward with some positivity for the future.
Community groups, businesses and the council stand ready to continue working together to support you. Working with our partners, Harlow Council has submitted three multimillion pound bids for government funding this year to improve our town and which will lead our town’s recovery. Our Local Plan, which will guide Harlow’s future development, is about to be adopted. It will help deliver positive change for our town, with new housing for all, new jobs and opportunities, new transport systems and protection for our green spaces.
I would like to thank all the key workers, volunteers and businesses who have been there to support our town and have kept the town going in 2020. In that I include hospital and care staff, but also council staff and the Veolia and HTS workforces who have run our essential services, adapted to the challenges and helped keep everyone safe. I thank you all for your resilience and strength this year and I wish you all a merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
We don’t quite know what 2021 will bring, but we go into it with renewed hope, and when the time is right and it is safe to do so we will get together as a town again.
In this edition News in brief Harlow Police update Princess Alexandra Hospital Town centre at Christmas Your councillors Useful numbers and websites
2-3 8 9 11 16 17
image: pixabay
4 Christmas bin & collections 5 Advice and revised dates
7 Are you winter ready?
Tips and advice to help you
Cover: St. Andrews church, Netteswell, CM18 6BH. Photo by Paul Blake and shared on Photos of Harlow new and old Facebook page. Thank you Paul.
www.facebook.com/harlowcouncil image: pixabay
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Circle Only use blue and/or white. For more details check out our Brand Guidelines.
Tweet us your views www.twitter.com/harlowcouncil Harlow Times can also be read online at www.harlow.gov.uk
10 Building Harlow’s future
Multi-million pound bid made
15 Coronavirus help and support
Help with bills and homelessness
harlow times · winter 2020 www.harlow.gov.uk
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News in brief
Blueprint for Harlow’s future image: pixabay
Elections in May 2021 The electoral register for 2020-2021 has been published. If your name is not on the register you will not be able to vote in any elections and you may also have trouble obtaining credit. You can register to vote online at www.gov.uk/registertovote or contact us for a form. The next local elections are on Thursday 6 May 2021 which will be county, district and Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner elections. We are working to ensure that polling stations will be safe places to vote in, but you can vote by post if you prefer. Make sure you apply early to give us time to process your application. Download a postal vote form on our website, email registration@harlow.gov.uk or call 01279 446042. All forms can be returned by email but they must be signed in a proper hand written signature, electronic signatures will not be accepted.
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harlow times · winter 2020 www.harlow.gov.uk
Harlow’s new Local Plan is set to be adopted on 10 December 2020. The draft Local Plan was agreed by the Planning Inspectorate in November, following its independent examination and public consultation over many years. The decision comes at a critical time and provides a solid basis for the growth and development of the town up to 2033. The council will move to formally adopt the plan at its Full Council meeting on Thursday 10 December 2020. This meeting will be streamed live at www. youtube.com/harlowcouncil
Fireworks funds used to feed children In October we donated money from our cancelled fireworks display to help Harlow Foodbank feed children entitled to free school meals.
There are various benefits of the plan. This includes more housing to help those on Harlow’s housing needs register, new jobs, a better public transport system and a thriving town centre. It also contains policies to protect the town’s green spaces. More on the plan will be in next March’s Harlow Times and you can find out more on our website.
We donated £10,000 from the fireworks fund, which will also help Foodbank support families over Christmas. The Foodbank supports families and individuals in crisis by providing free emergency food. For more information on how you can help the foodbank visit www.mrct.org.uk
The money helped the charity give 400 children from 169 families healthy meals in the October half-term. A number of local businesses and organisations also responded to nationwide calls to help feed children in the October holidays to ensure no child went hungry.
image: unsplash
News in brief
Celebrating our green spaces Harlow now has four Green Flag award-winning open spaces. Parndon Wood has won the award for the 12th time, the Town Park for the 5th time in a row and the Museum Walled Gardens for the first time. In addition to these three sites, the town has further cause to celebrate this year with a fourth Green Flag for Harlow Mill. Green Flags recognise and reward well-managed parks across the UK and the world. All four sites are maintained with the help of local volunteers. Harlow’s parks and open spaces have been important in helping residents with their physical health and mental wellbeing during the pandemic. More information on the outdoor facilities which are open can be found at www.harlow.gov.uk/coronavirus
Harlowsave has a brand new home HTS Group Ltd recently provided Harlowsave Credit Union with support in moving to a new premises. The council-owned company helped Harlowsave move from Harlow Library into a unit in the Harvey Centre. This was all within a 5-week period and in time for the organisation to be able to launch a Christmas loans campaign. The move was made possible thanks to HTS working in partnership with the Harvey Centre.
HTS renews vehicle fleet
HTS Group Ltd has also been renewing its vehicle fleet.
Harlowsave offers people an ethical alternative to highinterest lenders. For more information visit www.harlowsave.coop or call 01279 451234.
The council-owned company has invested in new vans and tipper trucks, as well as a JCB and 3 electric vehicles. This investment is helping HTS provide a solid future platform for the delivery of its services to tenants and residents of Harlow, with a more economical and environmentally friendly fleet. harlow times ¡ winter 2020 www.harlow.gov.uk
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Recycling and bins
Christmas waste and recycling collections What to do with your extra waste We know there is going to be lots more waste this Christmas and we want to make sure nothing has to be left behind. Check our guide below to find out what you should do with your extra waste.
Extra recycling Recycling as much as possible is a great way to save resources and reduce the amount of waste sent to landfill. Wrapping paper, Christmas cards and most types of packaging can be recycled. Extra recycling should be put out as normal in bags that are not black or purple alongside your full bin or box. Please visit www.harlow.gov.uk/bins-andrecycling
You can put all of these in your fortnightly recycling collection
cans, food tins and aerosols
Plastic bottles and items marked 1 or 2
boxes, card and paper
mixed glass and jars
Extra household waste
We will collect one extra bag of household waste per household on the first non-recycling collection after Christmas Day. Any extra waste should be placed in a plastic bag next to your non-recycling bin on your collection day. Food and leftovers Food waste should only be wrapped in newspaper or placed in compostable liners showing this logo:
Extra food waste can be put in compostable liners on top of your caddy or in a cardboard box. More information on what you can put in your food caddy, can be found on our website.
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harlow times ¡ winter 2020 www.harlow.gov.uk
Dead batteries thrown away with the non-recycling can ignite or even explode when they’re damaged. We offer a free battery collection on non-recycling collection days.* Batteries should be placed in a plastic bag or small cardboard box, clearly labelled and put out for collection alongside your bin or purple bags on collection day. Please do not put batteries into any bin, bag or box other than for the separate collection.
You can put all of these in your weekly food waste caddy
bread, cake and pastries
compostable
Take charge
meat and bones
fruit and vegetables
tea bags and coffee grounds
cheese and dairy
You can find out which batteries we accept on our website. *Battery collections are available for houses only
Enjoy a wasteless Christmas Love Essex has some great tips and advice to help you celebrate the festive season sustainably and reduce your plastic waste. Sign up to the plastic pledge today at: www.loveessex.org/ plasticpledge
Recycling and bins
Green waste premium service reminder
What to do with bins in extreme weather
During the Christmas period there will be no premium service collections from 21 December 2020 to 1 January 2021.
Recycling and waste collections will be disrupted during heavy snow and in icy conditions. Please continue to put out your bins until they are collected, unless advised otherwise by us.
As usual other bookable services will also be suspended between Christmas and New Year.
Go online for updates during severe weather. You can visit www.harlow.gov.uk, or see the council’s Facebook or Twitter pages for information.
Revised waste and recycling collection days You can also check your revised collection days at www.harlow.gov.uk Normal collections return Monday 18 January 2021 Normal Collection
Recycle your Christmas tree and we will turn your money into a donation You can recycle your real tree with us for just £2.15. We will donate all the money to the Chair of the Council’s charities Mind West Essex and the baby loss charity Petals, with Veolia matching every donation.
Revised Collection
Date
Day
Date
25/12/2020
Fri
29/12/2020
Tue
28/12/2020
Mon
30/12/2020
Wed
29/12/2020
Tue
31/12/2020
Thu
30/12/2020
Wed
02/01/2021
Sat
31/12/2020
Thu
04/01/2021
Mon
Normal Collection
Day
Revised Collection
Date
Day
Date
Day
01/01/2021
Fri
05/01/2021
Tue
Book a collection at https://www.harlow.gov.uk/christmas-trees
04/01/2021
Mon
06/01/2021
Wed
05/01/2021
Tue
07/01/2021
Thu
06/01/2021
Wed
08/01/2021
Fri
If you have signed up for our fortnightly garden waste collection, put your tree out alongside your brown bin (or bags) on your collection day.
07/01/2021
Thu
09/01/2021
Sat
www.harlow.gov.uk/bins-and-recycling
Normal Collection
Revised Collection
Date
Day
Date
Day
08/01/2021
Fri
11/01/2021
Mon
11/01/2021
Mon
12/01/2021
Tue
12/01/2021
Tue
13/01/2021
Wed
13/10/2021
Wed
14/01/2021
Thu
14/01/2021
Thu
15/01/2021
Fri
15/01/2021
Fri
16/01/2021
Sat
harlow times · winter 2020 www.harlow.gov.uk
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Your health services
image: pixabay
Using the NHS and other health services during the coronavirus pandemic
At the moment it can be hard to know what to do if you’re unwell or have concerns about your health. Please remember your GP services are open, always have been and will continue to be.
NHS services have made changes to make sure it’s safe for you to be seen during coronavirus. There are also ways to get medical help and prescriptions online or over the phone.
It’s important to: • get medical help if you think you need it • keep any appointments or procedures you have booked – unless you’re told not to go • go to hospital if you’re advised to
Health information and advice
If patients need to speak to a nurse or GP, they will be triaged on the telephone or online. After this, the practice will let patients know what sort of appointment they will have. This will be a telephone consultation, a video call or a face-to-face appointment. Face-to-face appointments are still taking place, but only if it is essential. Safety measures have been put in place to prevent the spread of coronavirus. GPs and nurses may also be wearing protective clothing to keep you both safe. Please be patient and be kind as our staff continue to do their best to make sure you get the best care possible.
Help and support from a GP
If you need to contact a GP, do not go into the surgery in person. Call you GP or visit the GP surgery’s website.
Repeat prescriptions
If you have a repeat prescription that you usually request at your GP surgery or pharmacy, you can do this online. Do not go to your GP surgery or pharmacy to order prescriptions. Call them if you cannot order your prescription online.
Hospitals
If you have a hospital appointment, it’s important to go. Your hospital will contact you with more information about what you need to do.
Dental treatment
harlow times · winter 2020 www.harlow.gov.uk
• Use the NHS 111 service if you cannot contact your dentist or do not have one
The best place to get accurate health information is the NHS website www.nhs.uk or your GP surgery’s website.
In England, some routine dental treatments are now available.
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If you think you need urgent dental treatment: • Call your dentist
image: pixabay
Sexual health clinics
Call a sexual health clinic if you need help or advice about sexual health issues like sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or contraception. Visit www. essexsexualhealthservice.org. uk or call 0300 003 1212.
Contraception
If you need contraception, call your GP surgery or a sexual health clinic as soon as possible. Only go in person if you’ve been told to.
Urgent medical help
If you need urgent medical help, use the NHS 111 online service.
Emergency medical help
For life-threatening emergencies, call 999 for an ambulance. Try to avoid going straight to A&E instead of calling an ambulance.
Get ready for winter
Are you winter ready?
Winter often brings a lot of different challenges, so it’s helpful to make sure we are all prepared. We’re ready to support you, but are also asking everyone to do their bit too.
Need extra support and help?
What you can do to help • Keep an eye on the welfare of your elderly and vulnerable relatives and neighbours, remembering to socially distance. • Clear snow and ice from the front of your homes and businesses. See our guide to clearing snow and ice below.
UK Power Networks offer free support to those who need help during a power cut. To add your details to their priority services register visit www.ukpowernetworks.co.uk or phone 0800 029 4285.
Gritting Patches of ice or frost on the roads and pavements can make travel more difficult for cars and pedestrians. Essex County Council is responsible for gritting the main roads and footpaths in Harlow. Check which roads are gritted at www.essex.gov.uk/gritters Harlow Council plays its part to make sure residents can get around safely by gritting areas such as the town centre, outside doctor’s surgeries and supported housing complexes.
Affinity Water also has a priority services register which is free to join for customers who require urgent assistance during an incident. For information visit www.affinitywater.co.uk or phone 0345 357 2406. The Met Office website, www.metoffice.gov.uk has lots of information to help you prepare for adverse weather conditions, storms or flooding. The Met Office and Public Health England also run a Cold Weather Alert service which residents can sign up to via the Met Office website.
image: pixabay
• Keep warm. Pensioners and low-income families may qualify for extra help and cold weather payments which are paid automatically. If you are worried about someone: • Knock on their door and ask them if they are alright, taking a step back to ensure at least a 2-metre distance when talking to them. • If you’re still worried, please contact Social Services on 0345 603 7630. • If there is an imminent danger, dial 999 and speak to the emergency services.
A guide to clearing snow and ice There’s no law stopping you from clearing snow and ice on the pavement outside your home, business or from public spaces. It’s unlikely you will be sued or held legally responsible for any injuries if you have cleared it carefully.
Do not use hot water. This will melt the snow, but will replace it with black ice, increasing the risk of injury.
Removing the top layer of snow from your path will allow the sun to melt any ice beneath.
Scatter ordinary table salt on the path or area you have cleared to prevent any ice forming and to stop it from refreezing overnight. Avoid spreading it on plants or grass.
harlow times · winter 2020 www.harlow.gov.uk
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Harlow Community Policing Team
Harlow Police Station is open Monday to Sunday, 9am - 5pm Tell us what matters to you. Email the team at HarlowCPT@essex.police.uk Call 999 (emergencies), report online: www.essex-police.uk or call 101 (non urgent enquiries).
#ProtectingAndServing Over the past month we have continued to tackle crime throughout Harlow and in the town centre. Officers from our Town Centre Team arrested a male for possession of class A drugs with intent to supply and have been working with members of the council’s Community Safety Team, carrying out high visibility foot patrols to target violent crime and provide reassurance to the public. They also responded to a young male that had his phone stolen. The suspect was quickly located in the town centre and arrested after a stop and search.
Please make them aware and encourage them to be careful not to leave their keys in the ignition or the car running, making themselves a target. We are also still receiving reports of thefts across Essex and here in Harlow of catalytic converters. Thefts from vehicles also seems on the rise, mainly tools left inside vans overnight. We would ask everybody to be vigilant and report any people or vehicles acting suspiciously. Officers will keep up the high visibility patrol in these areas as well as their general patrolling of Harlow. If you have any ASB problems in your area, report them at essex.police.uk, call 101 or if it’s an emergency dial 999.
COVID-19 patrols
Police and council community safety officers have also been carrying out searches in relation to the knife crime initiative - Operation Sceptre. They have had some success in finding knives and potential weapons that have been hidden in and around the town centre. This is good news following a stabbing that occurred not far from the town centre in November. The offender was arrested soon after, but we still strive to do everything we can to reduce the risks from knife crime and ensure Harlow remains a safe place. Elsewhere in the town we have been experiencing reports of cars being stolen, when delivery drivers are leaving their vehicle’s unattended. Please look out for suspicious people or vehicles if you do deliveries yourself or know somebody that does.
Officers from Harlow Police have continued patrolling in different areas of the community since the move to Tier Two restrictions for Essex. The first weekend went well with the majority of people abiding by the new restrictions. We are continuing these patrols as well as our day-today business in Harlow. We know restrictions are tough for some and we appreciate the sacrifice everyone’s been making to help keep us all safe. Our approach will continue to be, engaging with the public, encouraging people to do the right thing and, explaining the latest regulations. We are very grateful to those of you who have reported issues. We cannot deal with these issues without your help and will do our best to respond where possible. Prosecution will be a last resort when all else has failed.
#CrimePrevention As you begin Christmas shopping, criminals start their shopping season as well. Do’s • Do keep purses and bags closed and secure at all times. • Do carry bags in front of you or diagonally across your chest. • Do return cards to your purse or wallet quickly and zip or button it up. • Do use a purse that’s difficult to open. One that zips or snaps shut is best, and keep it closed. Invest in some purse bells as well. • Do use a money belt if you’re carrying a significant amount of cash. • Do conceal your wallet in a buttoned or zipped pocket where it doesn’t bulge. • Do keep a list, separate from your wallet and phone, of contact numbers of family in case your phone is stolen. • Do keep a photocopy of your airline tickets, passport, credit cards and any other documents that would be impossible or inconvenient to replace if stolen. Don’ts • Don’t hang stuff on the back of a chair. • Don’t leave anything on the back of a pushchair. • Don’t place your belongings out of sight on the table or floor. Remember, having a zipped bag doesn’t mean you’re totally safe. Thieves have been known to walk behind victims while slowly unzipping bags. Yes, they can be that bold. So, never underestimate a pickpocket.
#ProtectingAndServingHarlow 8
harlow times · winter 2020 www.harlow.gov.uk
The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust
New digital appointment viewing system to improve patient experience We have introduced a new electronic system that enables neurology and radiology outpatients to view and download their outpatient hospital appointment letters instantly via a new patient portal.
Message from Lance McCarthy, Chief Executive
DrDoctor is designed to make it easier for you to view hospital appointments online via the internet, smartphone, tablet or device at any time. Currently neurology and radiology outpatients who are visiting the barium and ultrasound department will be able to view and download their hospital appointment letters electronically. What will this mean for me? If we have your mobile phone number stored on our records, you will receive a text message that will take you straight to a secure DrDoctor login portal to set up an account that requires your full name, date of birth and postcode, allowing you to view your upcoming appointment letters online. If you sign up to DrDoctor, you will no longer receive a paper copy of your future outpatient appointment letters. If you change your mind, you can update your letter preferences via the portal.
In this extremely challenging year for all of our people at The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust (PAHT), we have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from our community. If you are unable to view your letter online or do not click on the link from the text we send to you, we will continue to send your outpatient appointment letters by post. You will be notified when you have a new letter and you can download it as a PDF. If you change your mind You can go back to receiving a paper copy of your outpatient appointment letter at any time by logging into your DrDoctor account and updating your letter preferences. For more information on the service, visit www.pah.nhs.uk
From words of thanks for our teams, to gifts and donations to our COVID-19 charity appeal, we have seen an amazing response from the residents of Harlow and the surrounding areas. You have shown compassion to our staff and understanding in a time of change and we are very grateful to all of you for supporting your local hospital. As we approach the festive season, on behalf of all of our PAHT people, I send our best wishes to our community. Lance McCarthy Chief Executive
harlow times ¡ winter 2020 www.harlow.gov.uk
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Towns Fund bid
Building Harlow’s future Bid submitted for up to £25m of funding
Artist impression: Harlow transport and commercial hub
With Harlow Council and its partners working together to help the town through the pandemic, a multi-million pound bid has been submitted for 6 projects in the town. Harlow Growth Board, a partnership of local public, private and voluntary organisations, have submitted the Towns Fund bid to get government funding towards the following projects: Harlow town centre - there are 3 projects to improve the transport links and connectivity in the town centre. This includes improving public spaces to make the town centre feel safer and more attractive and a new transport and commercial hub in Terminus Street. Staple Tye regeneration improving Staple Tye neighbourhood with new workspace for businesses and creating new jobs. Cambridge Road and River Way junction - developing the Templefields Enterprise Zone through improving access via a new Cambridge Road and River Way junction.
10 harlow times · winter 2020 www.harlow.gov.uk
Institute of Technology improving local skills opportunities through Harlow College’s plans for the Institute of Technology.
In late 2019 Harlow was one of 101 towns across the country that could apply for up to £25 million from the government’s Towns Fund. The council has already secured £1m from the fund, which will be invested in improvements to Harlow town centre.
The board expects to hear the outcome of the bid later this year.
“Our plan has the backing of all of the Growth Board members who are working together to ensure that Harlow gets the very best deal it can from government. A lot of work and detail has gone into developing these proposals which we believe will make Harlow a better place to live, work, visit and learn.
The council has also bid for funding from the Future High Streets Fund to support other projects in the town centre, as well as made a bid to the South East Local Enterprise Partnership for funding to accelerate the Harlow Science Park development. More on information on the Towns Fund can be found on our website.
“These projects will support and work alongside other game changing projects for Harlow such as Harlow & Gilston Garden Town, the Public Health Science Campus, the new hospital and Harlow Enterprise Zone”, Dr John Keddie,
Chair of the Harlow Growth Board.
Cambridge Road and Riverway junction
Shop local this Christmas
Winter in Harlow Town Centre This year has been difficult for Harlow Town Centre and it’s likely to continue for a little while longer. As we head towards Christmas with the pandemic still very much dominating our lives, we didn’t want the season to pass without sharing some of the Christmas magic that the town centre provides each year.
Virtual Harlow Makers Market We’ve missed having the Harlow Makers Market, but promise once it is safe to do so, the event will be back.
With no Christmas lights switch on events or activities, this year we will be hosting a range of free virtual events and activities throughout December, to help you celebrate the festive season and to say thank you for continuing to support Harlow Town Centre, the shops and the shop workers throughout the difficult year.
Hands, face, space – safely visiting Harlow Town Centre When visiting Harlow Town Centre, remember that things are a little different.
There are one-way systems to help you navigate the town centre safely. You may also need to queue at some shops and stores. There are hand sanitiser stations in the bus terminus, Harvey Centre and The Water Gardens.
A number of measures are in place to make sure your visit is as safe as possible.
You must wear a face covering inside a store or the Harvey Centre, unless you are exempt.
You can also visit www. harlowtowncentre.co.uk/ christmas to download unique Christmas decoration templates featuring some of Harlow’s magnificent sculptures to print out and decorate at home.
In the meantime, we’re bringing together our makers virtually, shining a spotlight on the wonderful range of makers that Harlow and the surrounding area has to offer. If you are looking for a special, unique Christmas present or a treat for yourself, our range of makers have something for everyone. You can find details at www.harlowtowncentre. co.uk/makers
DIY STEAM Activities Following a successful science, technology, engineering arts and maths workshop in February, we have a range of interesting and exciting virtual activities on our website that children and families can try at home.
image: pixabay
#ElfYourself craft and competition Unfortunately there is no ‘Elf Yourself’ workshop in the town this year, but instead, how about creating your own elf costume at home? You can find a template as well as tips on how to make it unique at www.harlowtowncentre. co.uk/christmas
You could also be in with a chance to win a prize by entering our #ElfYourself competition, open to anyone aged 14 and under! Simply take a photo of yourself in your elf costume andupload it to the Harlow Town Centre Instagram, Facebook or Twitter page, tagging Harlow Town Centre and using the hashtag #ElfYourself.
harlow times · winter 2020 www.harlow.gov.uk
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Shop local, shop safely
Keeping the pound in town: shop local, shop safely Don’t forget to support your local neighbourhood shopping centres and local hatches this Christmas. Every time you shop local you are supporting the local economy and helping to keep local people in jobs. When you shop local, stay safe by: • Washing and sanitising your hands regularly • Wearing a face covering
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• Keeping at least 2 metres from others
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• Walking, cycling or driving to the shops rather than use public transport
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*Please note our “shop and eat local” guide featuring different shopping areas will return in the spring 2021 edition of Harlow Times.
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12 harlow times · winter 2020 www.harlow.gov.uk
Protecting the built environment
Protecting the built environment Houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) and office conversions image: pixabay
HMOs HMOs are an important part of Harlow’s housing mix, particularly for single people who have few other options. However in the last 5 years there’s been a near 300% increase in the numbers of HMOs in our town. This growth has reduced the amount of family housing that is available and in some areas HMOs have created pressures on parking. Harlow Council wants to reduce the increase in HMOs whilst maintaining a reasonable number of these properties. Our policy is to create an appropriate balance of accommodation across the town. We’ve three tools we can use to control the development of HMOS: Planning: Our new Local Plan, to be adopted in December 2020, will require all new large HMOs (those housing more than six people) to provide one dedicated parking space for each person living in the property. This means that HMOs cannot be developed unless they can provide the necessary parking. Our policy also means that more than one house in a row of five cannot be converted to HMO use. Article 4 direction: We are considering implementing a town-wide article 4 direction.
This would mean that all new HMOs would have to secure planning permission. HMOs housing six or fewer people currently don’t require planning permission from us and can be converted with permitted development rights. This direction would change that and provide us with greater control over conversions. Initial consultation has taken place and we will make a final decision next March on whether or not to implement this measure. Covenant control: Many of Harlow’s homes have restrictive covenants which restrict their use to single family homes only. In February, we decided to use our powers not to release these covenants. These covenants were put in place to make sure Harlow always has a continued supply of family housing. We will only release them if there is a specific need to and there would not be undue impact.
image: pixabay
Office block conversions Harlow’s office-to-residential conversions have received widespread media coverage. These privately-owned office blocks have been converted under permitted development rights. This means they did not need planning permission. These conversions are an issue that we and our community are deeply concerned about. The conversions have put extra pressure on services and many provide unsuitable housing in unsuitable locations. Other councils are also using these converted offices to place families in them. We have successfully introduced article 4 directions to cover the town centre and all industrial areas. Any new conversions now need planning permission, which gives us greater control over the scale, quality and location of developments. We’ve already refused planning permission for two conversions in the last year. Unfortunately the directions cannot be used for existing conversions. We’ve lobbied government for changes to permitted development rights. We also continue to press other councils to stop housing people in these developments as well as calling on owners to consider other uses for their buildings. harlow times · winter 2020 www.harlow.gov.uk
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Housing news
Tribute to Margaret MacKenzie We would all like to take the opportunity to thank Margaret for all her hard work and dedication she gave to us all.
Harlow Council Housing services and the tenant and leaseholder representatives were deeply saddened to hear of the loss of one of the longest serving tenant and leaseholder representatives, Margaret MacKenzie. As well as working very closely with us on many projects which have made a great difference to residents’ lives, Margaret was also involved with other organisations providing volunteer help and support.
This included volunteering at the Princess Alexandra Hospital to help raise funds to purchase a hospital scanner at a time when scanners were very rare. Margaret also helped fundraise for her local GP surgery.
Accessing your housing services online
If you are a council tenant or leaseholder you can now access your accounts online and make payments at anytime using the MyHome service.
Harlow Council’s Careline service provides peace of mind for vulnerable people living in the Harlow area 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year.
Call Harlow Careline: 01279 446361 careline@harlow.gov.uk www.harlow.gov.uk/careline 14 harlow times · winter 2020 www.harlow.gov.uk
Some of the tasks you can do include: • View your rent account details or print a copy of your statement
Margaret will be deeply missed, but always remembered for her beautiful smile which brought joy to many. Our deepest sympathies go out to Margaret’s family and friends.
• View your tenancy details • Request repairs to your home • View your service charges All you need to do is visit: https://selfserve.harlow.gov.uk and click on My Accounts.
MyHome
• Request a change of payment method or make payments
Repairs Centre Christmas opening hours The Repairs Centre will be open from 8am-4pm on:
Thursday 24 December 2020 Tuesday 29 December 2020 Wednesday 30 December 2020 Thursday 31 December 2020
Call: 01279 446666
A 24-hour genuine emergency repairs service is available on the days the repairs centre is closed and out of hours.
Normal opening from Monday 4 January 2021
Coronavirus support
Coronavirus help and support Help if you are about to become homeless
If you think you might become homeless in the next 10 days, it’s important you contact us as soon as possible. You can contact us by phoning 01279 446655. If you are not currently homeless but think you might lose your home in the next 56 days (8 weeks), you need to fill out our online homelessness assessment form. Visit www.harlow.gov.uk The more time we have, the more likely it is that we will be able to prevent you from becoming homeless.
Help with council bills
Please contact us straight away if you are having genuine difficulty in paying either your Council Tax or housing rent. We will consider your circumstances and work with you to agree realistic repayments. If you are having difficulties paying your Council Tax email us at council.tax@harlow.gov.uk or call 01279 446688. Despite the extremely difficult circumstances in recent months, we appreciate that the majority of our tenants have continued to pay their rent. Many tenants facing difficulties have been working closely with us, receiving advice and support and making realistic arrangements to address arrears that have accrued.
Supporting our tenants in sustaining their tenancies during these unprecedented times remains our priority. We only ever take recovery action as a last resort and only against tenants who are able to pay their rent, but choose not to, and who fail to work with us. If you are having difficulties with your rent call us on 01279 446655.
Help with your Council Tax You can apply for Council Tax Support to help you pay your Council Tax if you’re on a low income or claiming benefits.
You may also be able to claim Housing Benefit if you’re claiming this support. Visit www.harlow.gov.uk or call us on 01279 446655 to apply.
Help with your rent
You may be able to receive extra short-term help with your rent by applying for a Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP). You can claim a DHP if you already receive the housing element of Universal Credit, or receive Housing Benefit, but need help to meet your rent. Visit www.harlow.gov.uk/ benefits for an application form or call us on 01279 446655.
Supported housing tenants
If you are experiencing problems paying your rent please speak to your Housing Support and Telecare Officer.
Different ways to pay
During lockdowns residents have found other ways to pay their council bills without needing to visit the Civic Centre. Other ways to pay include: • Setting up a Direct Debit • Online www.harlow.gov.uk • 24-hour automated payment line 01279 446600 • Standing orders • Bank transfer For more information visit www.harlow.gov.uk or call 01279 446655.
Support for council leaseholders
If you are experiencing genuine difficulties in paying your annual service charges or major works invoice you can contact the Home Ownership team on 01279 446206 or email homeownership@harlow.gov. uk to discuss your situation. If you are receiving a state pension or are unemployed you should apply for Universal Credit as in some circumstances this may offer you financial support. If you have a mortgage provider you can approach them explaining your situation and they may pay the invoice on your behalf and add the amount to your mortgage. Please do not ignore these invoices as recovery action can be taken to collect the monies owed. harlow times · winter 2020 www.harlow.gov.uk
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Your Harlow Councillors Councillor Simon Carter Conservative
Harlow Council, Civic Centre, CM20 1WG Tel: 07900 256403 Email: mark.ingall@harlow.gov.uk
71 Mark Hall Moors, CM20 2NF Tel: 429443 Email: simon.carter@harlow.gov.uk
Councillor Eugenie Harvey Labour Harlow Council, Civic Centre, CM20 1WG Tel: 07966 014122 c/o
DEPUTY LEADER Email: eugenie.harvey@harlow.gov.uk
Councillor Jodi Dunne Labour
Councillor David Carter Conservative
Councillor Emma Toal Labour
Councillor Chris Vince Labour
Councillor Lanie Shears Labour
Harlow Council, Civic Centre, CM20 1WG Tel: 07729 406011
c/o Harlow Council,
Civic Centre, CM20 1WG Tel: 07906 870935 Email: lanie.shears@harlow.gov.uk
Councillor Tony Durcan Labour
Councillor Danny Purton Labour
Councillor Maggie Hulcoop Labour 330 Carters Mead, CM17 9HA Tel: 452252 Email: maggie.hulcoop@harlow.gov.uk
Councillor Mark Wilkinson Labour
c/o
Portfolio Holder Email: chris.vince@harlow.gov.uk
329 Rundells, CM18 7HN Tel: 414357
Portfolio Holder Email: anthony.durcan@harlow.gov.uk
Mark Hall
Harlow Council, Civic Centre, CM20 1WG Tel: 07885 881255 Email: emma.toal@harlow.gov.uk
c/o Harlow Council,
Civic Centre, CM20 1WG Tel: 07763 486882
Portfolio Holder Email: danny.purton@harlow.gov.uk
Councillor Jean Clark Labour
Councillor Bob Davis Labour
4 Rushmead Villas, CM20 2QE Tel: 423474 Email: jean.clark@harlow.gov.uk
c/o Harlow Council,
VICE CHAIR
Civic Centre, CM20 1WG Tel: 07749 393037 Email: bob.davis@harlow.gov.uk
Councillor Shannon Jezzard Labour
Councillor Michael Garnett Conservative
Councillor Stefan Mullard Labour
Harlow Council, Civic Centre, CM20 1WG Tel: 07850 861905 Email: shannon.jezzard@harlow.gov.uk
Brook House, Wyldwood Close, CM17 0JD Tel: 437401 Email: michael.garnett@harlow.gov.uk
c/o Harlow Council,
Councillor Mike Danvers Labour 65 Tunnmeade, CM20 3HN Tel: 425934 / 07398 160081
Portfolio Holder Email: mike.danvers@harlow.gov.uk
Councillor Nancy Watson Labour
Old Harlow
c/o
Councillor Joel Charles Conservative 86 Jocelyns, CM17 0BU Tel: 07752 096765 Email: joel.charles@harlow.gov.uk
Civic Centre, CM20 1WG Tel: 07951 401128 Email: stefan.mullard@harlow.gov.uk
Councillor Michael Hardware Conservative 12a Hart Road, Harlow, CM17 0HL Tel: 07775 925274 Email: michael.hardware@harlow.gov.uk
Councillor Sue Livings Conservative
Councillor John Strachan Labour
c/o
Harlow Council, Civic Centre, CM20 1WG Tel: 07908 518862 Email: nancy.watson@harlow.gov.uk
15 Seeleys, CM17 0AD Tel: 422339 Email: sue.livings@harlow.gov.uk
100 Seymours, CM19 5NH Tel: 323656 / 07941 829965 Email: john.strachan@harlow.gov.uk
Councillor Russell Perrin Conservative
Councillor Phil Waite Labour
c/o
1 Spruce Hill, CM18 7SR Tel: 07740 407323 Email: phil.waite@harlow.gov.uk
Harlow Council, Civic Centre, CM20 1WG Tel: 312195 Email: russell.perrin@harlow.gov.uk
Councillor Nick Churchill Conservative 215 Brockles Mead, CM19 4QA Tel: 621094 Email: nick.churchill@harlow.gov.uk
Toddbrook
Netteswell
78 Mallards Rise, CM17 9PL Tel: 865673 Email: shona.johnson@harlow.gov.uk
23 Greygoose Park, CM19 4JL Tel: 420340 Email: david.carter@harlow.gov.uk
56 Sakins Croft, CM18 7BP Tel: 07718 696429 Portfolio Holder Email: mark.wilkinson@harlow.gov.uk
Sumners & Kingsmoor
Councillor Shona Johnson Conservative
78 Mallards Rise, CM17 9PL Tel: 865673 Email: andrew.johnson@harlow.gov.uk
Staple Tye
Harlow Common
Councillor Andrew Johnson Conservative
Civic Centre, CM20 1WG Tel: 312195 Email: eddie.johnson@harlow.gov.uk
Harlow Council, Civic Centre, CM20 1WG Tel: 07378 879710 Email: jodi.dunne@harlow.gov.uk
c/o
CHAIR
Vacant Seat By-Election to be held on 6 May 2021
c/o Harlow Council,
c/o
Little Parndon & Hare Street
Bush Fair
LEADER
Church Langley
c/o
Councillor Eddie Johnson Conservative
Great Parndon
Councillor Mark Ingall Labour
Councillor Tony Edwards Labour Harlow Council, Civic Centre, CM20 1WG Tel: 07544 374168 Email: tony.edwards@harlow.gov.uk c/o
Councillor Frances Mason Labour
Councillor Clive Souter Conservative
227 Longbanks, CM18 7PB Tel: 07850 667900 Email: clive.souter@harlow.gov.uk
Harlow Council, Civic Centre, CM20 1WG Tel: 07517 992133
c/o
Portfolio Holder Email: frances.mason@harlow.gov.uk
Cabinet Members Councillor Mark Ingall - Leader of the Council Councillor Eugenie Harvey - Deputy Leader & Portfolio Holder for Resilience and Recovery Councillor Mike Danvers - Portfolio Holder for Resources Councillor Tony Durcan - Portfolio Holder for Growth and Prosperity Councillor Frances Mason - Portfolio Holder for Governance, Equality and Diversity Councillor Danny Purton - Portfolio Holder for Environment Councillor Chris Vince - Portfolio Holder for Community and Wellbeing Councillor Mark Wilkinson - Portfolio Holder for Housing For more information on who your Councillors are visit: www.harlow.gov.uk
16 harlow times ¡ winter 2020 www.harlow.gov.uk
Essex County Councillors County councillors can help with services like libraries, transport, roads and highways, social care for adults and children, education and schools. Harlow North Councillor Michael Garnett Conservative Email: cllr.mike.garnett@essex.gov.uk
Harlow West Councillor Michael Hardware Conservative Email: cllr.michael.hardware@essex.gov.uk Harlow West Councillor Clive Souter Conservative Email: cllr.clive.souter@essex.gov.uk
Harlow South East Councillor Eddie Johnson Conservative Email: cllr.eddie.johnson@essex.gov.uk
Useful numbers and websites Adult Social Services 0345 603 7630 www.essex.gov.uk Affinity Water 0345 357 2407 www.affinitywater.co.uk Arriva Buses 0344 800 4411 www.arriva.co.uk Blue Badge Enquiries 0345 603 7630 www.essexhighways.org Bus Pass Helpline 0345 200 0388 www.essexhighways.org Children’s Social Services 0345 603 7627 www.essex.gov.uk Essex County Council Contact Essex 0345 743 0430 www.essex.gov.uk Essex Highways For traffic updates and to report potholes and faulty street lights 0345 603 7631 www.essexhighways.org Essex Police 101 www.essex.police.uk
Job Centre Plus 0800 169 0190 www.gov.uk/contact-jobcentre-plus
Gas Leak Emergency Number 0800 111 999 Harlow Advice Centre Based in Harlow Library 01279 704002 Harlow Bus Station 01279 426349 www.harlow.gov.uk/bus-station
Harlow Citizens’ Advice Bureau 0344 477 0808 www.harlowcitizensadvice.org.uk Harlow College 01279 868000 www.harlow-college.ac.uk
National Rail Enquiries 0345 748 4950 www.nationalrail.co.uk NHS Choices 111 www.nhs.uk Parndon Wood Cemetery & Crematorium 01279 620620 www.parndonwoodcrem.co.uk Post Office Customer Helpline 0345 611 2970 www.postoffice.co.uk
Harlow Community Transport 01279 798876 www.efcommunitytransport.co.uk
Princess Alexandra Hospital 01279 444455 www.pah.nhs.uk
Harlow Council Contact Harlow 01279 446655 www.harlow.gov.uk
Samaritans 116 123 (free) www.samaritans.org
Harlow Registry Office 0345 603 7632 www.essex.gov.uk
Schools Admissions 0345 603 2200 www.essex.gov.uk/admissions
Harlowsave (Credit Union) 01279 451234 www.harlowsave.coop HTS (Property & Environment) Ltd Repairs line: 01279 446666 www.harlow.gov.uk/housing-repairs
UK Power Networks (power cuts) 105 www.ukpowernetworks.co.uk
Contacting us over Christmas We will reopen at 9am on Monday 4 January 2021. Due to the ongoing pandemic we advise residents to call us on 01279 446655 and access services online at www.harlow.gov.uk rather than come into see us. If there are lockdown restrictions in place the Civic Centre may be closed to the public, but you can still contact us over the phone and online. During the Christmas shutdown you can contact us in an emergency on 01279 446666.
OPEN: 9am-4.45pm Monday 21 December 2020 to Thursday 24 December 2020 CLOSED Friday 25 December 2020 to Friday 1 January 2021
Harlow Times is published quarterly by Harlow Council to keep you informed. This magazine is distributed by Royal Mail. In some areas where postcodes overlap the boundaries of Harlow and other Councils, a small number of residents outside Harlow will also receive this magazine. We hope our residents will appreciate that this system of delivery is one of the most efficient and that our extra readers on the borders of the town will enjoy their complimentary copies and news about their nearest important town. Copyright for most images owned by Brian Thomas Photography (www.btphotography.co.uk) unless stated. Printed by Anchor Press Ltd., Harlow. TWITTER, TWEET, RETWEET and the Twitter logo are trademarks of Twitter Inc., or its affiliates. © Harlow Council 2020. You may re-use this information (excluding logos) free of charge in any format or medium, under the terms of the Open Government Licence v2.0. To view this licence visit www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open-government-licence/version/2/ or email psi@nationalarchives.gsi.gov.uk Where we have identified any third-party copyright information, you will need to obtain permission from the copyright holders concerned. Any enquiries regarding this publication should be sent to Communications, Harlow Council, Civic Centre, The Water Gardens, Harlow, Essex CM20 1WG or email communications@harlow.gov.uk
Harlow Times can be provided in large print and alternative formats. Please call 01279 446655 or email communications@harlow.gov.uk.
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I wear this to protect you. Please wear yours to protect me. Wear a face covering to keep your nose and mouth covered at all times on public transport, unless you have good reason not to.
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