Harlow Times Winter 2022

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 Swan Print Ltd.

© Harlow Council 2022. 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. View this licence: www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/opengovernment-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.

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

Supporting you and the local economy

Dear resident,

Welcome to your winter edition of Harlow Times, keeping you updated on what your council is doing for you.

In this edition there’s lots of information to help you prepare for winter, and that includes information on warm places and where to turn to for cost-of-living support. These are very challenging times for everyone, and winter can be an even tougher time.

Despite the unprecedented times, your council continues to focus on improving Harlow and supporting the local economy.

We’ve recently completed the purchase of the Harvey Centre, which shows how serious we are about regenerating your town centre. We’re taking the bold and sensible decisions needed to support and regenerate our town. At the same time, work has started on the £46m Strawberry Star redevelopment which will deliver new retail and community space, new homes, improvements to town centre streets and 83 new trees.

Regeneration is now finally happening in the town centre, and we’re taking the lead to get the investment needed.

To help us continue all this great work we’ve appointed a new Chief Executive in Andrew Bramidge. Andrew has a strong track record of delivery, and he has been heading up the team which has been accelerating forward our town centre regeneration plans.

There is so much more to do to tackle the backlog of housing repairs and to make further improvements to landscape maintenance in our town, but I am committed to ensuring we do just that as part of our work to restore pride.

We end 2022 on a positive footing and we can look forward to what we can deliver for our town in 2023.

I wish you and your loved ones a merry Christmas and a happy new year.

Councillor Russell Perrin, Leader of Harlow Council

“Despite the unprecedented times, your council continues to focus on improving Harlow and supporting the local economy.”

Fireworks light up town park

Thousands of people once again enjoyed Harlow Council’s famous bonfire and fireworks night event which was held in Harlow Town Park on Sunday 6 November 2022.

Around 20,000 people attended the free-admission event, which was part of Harlow’s 75th birthday celebrations.

The event itself celebrated its 44th year with the first ever event being held in the Town Park in 1978 (not held in 2020 due to the pandemic).

Restoring pride in our roundabouts

A new way of maintaining the town’s roundabouts is set to be launched, which will restore pride with improved maintenance, at no extra cost.

The council has agreed to enter into a contract with Community Partners Ltd who will secure sponsorship of roundabouts and maintain them.

The landscape maintenance of the town’s 36 roundabouts will be improved.

The council will also receive regular income and save the money they had previously paid to maintain the roundabouts.

The programme will start early in the new year.

One of Harlow’s overgrown roundabouts.

Andrew Bramidge is the new Chief Executive of Harlow Council.

Andrew was the council’s Director of Strategic Growth and Regeneration having previously been Head of Environment and Planning. He joined the council in November 2013 as Project Director – Enterprise Zone and led the successful delivery of that project.

He has also held several senior management roles in regeneration partnerships and private companies.

His appointment follows a competitive recruitment process which started back in September.

Andrew starts his new role on 16 December 2022.

New Chief Executive appointed Harlow Museum wins prestigious award

Harlow Museum & Walled Gardens volunteers have won an award for their work maintaining and promoting the famous John Collins cycle collection.

Andy Bray and Melvyn Seymour received the South East Marsh Award for Museum Learning on Monday 14 November at the British Museum.

Both look after the cycle collection, which includes restoring the bikes and carrying out a gentle cleaning regime. They also tell the story of the bikes to visitors using a variety of creative ways.

Well done Andy and Melvyn, we are very proud of your work!

For more information on the museum visit www.harlowmuseum.co.uk

Contacting Harlow Council over Christmas

Most of our services shut down between Christmas and new year. This helps save money on energy and building costs. You can still access services online, pay bills or contact us in an emergency.

You can access many of our services and pay your council bills online at www.harlow.gov.uk.

Council bills can also be paid using the automated payment line: 01279 446600. If you are a council tenant you can pay your rent and access your accounts by signing up for a My Home accounthttps://selfserve.harlow. gov.uk/MyAccounts

You can contact us in an emergency by calling 01279 446666.

We will be open 9am-4.45pm Monday 19 December 2022 to Friday 23 December 2022

We will be closed Monday 26 December 2022 to Monday 2 January 2023

We will reopen at 9am on Tuesday 3 January 2023.

Harlow Times | winter 2022 www.harlow.gov.uk

The museum team with Andy and Melvyn celebrating their achievement.

Cost of living support

Warm spaces offering a warm welcome

We know that it is a difficult time for everyone with the rise in cost of living and we want you to know that we are here to help. As energy bills rise and temperatures fall, there is extra support available.

Harlow Playhouse Warm Spaces opening times

Harlow Playhouse is providing a warm welcome to everyone who needs a warm and inviting space throughout winter. Free hot drinks will be available, as well as the opportunity to talk with local support services. You can find the warm spaces opening times on this page.

For more help and support with the cost of living visit our website www.harlow.gov.uk

You can also find out what support you are eligible for at www.gov.uk/HelpFor Households

Harlow Times | winter 2022 www.harlow.gov.uk

12pm to 5pm Studio 2 19/12/2022 12pm to 5pm Studio 2 23/12/2022 12pm to 5pm Studio 2 26/12/2022 1pm to 6pm Studio 2 30/12/2022 12pm to 3pm Studio 2 02/01/2023 12pm to 3pm Studio 2 06/01/2023 12pm to 5pm Studio 2 09/01/202312.30pm to 5pm Cafe Gallery 13/01/202312.30pm to 5pm Cafe Gallery 16/01/202312.30pm to 5pm Cafe Gallery 20/01/202312.30pm to 5pm Cafe Gallery 23/01/202312.30pm to 5pm Cafe Gallery 27/01/202312.30pm to 5pm Cafe Gallery 30/01/202312.30pm to 5pm Cafe Gallery

16/12/2022

Warm Welcomes at Harlow libraries

Libraries are open year-round for residents. However, Warm Welcomes will offer extra opportunities for residents to visit them to keep warm, get advice and information and stay connected with others this winter.

For more information visit https://libraries.essex.gov.uk or call 0345 603 7628

Normal opening times for Harlow libraries

Great Parndon, Parnall Road, CM18 7PP

Monday 9am to 7pm, Wednesday 9am to 5.30pm, Friday 9am to 5.30pm and Saturday 9am to 5pm

Harlow Central Library, Cross Street, CM20 1HA

Monday to Friday 9am to 5.30pm and Saturday 9am to 5pm

Mark Hall Library, The Stow, CM20 3AP

Tuesday 2pm to 7pm, Thursday 9am to 1pm and Saturday 9am to 5pm

Old Harlow Library, 30 High Street, CM17 0DW

Monday 9am to 1pm, Wednesday 2pm to 7pm, Friday 9am to 5.30pm and Saturday 9am to 5pm

Tye Green Library, Bush Fair, CM18 6LU

Tuesday 9am to 1pm, Thursday 9am to 7pm and Saturday 9am to 5pm

All libraries closed Bank Holidays, Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.

Cost of living support

Where to get further help and support

Harlow Citizens Advice Bureau 13-15 East Gate, Harlow 0808 278 7856 www.harlowcitizensadvice.org.uk Harlow Foodbank 01279 724515 www.mrct.org.uk

Help with council bills

Please contact us straight away on 01279 446655 if you are having genuine difficulty in paying any of your council bills.

National money and debt advice

Money Helper www.moneyhelper.org.uk

National Debtline 0800 808 4000 www.nationaldebtline.org

StepChange Debt Charity 0800 138 1111 www.stepchange.org.uk

Debt Advice Foundation 0800 622 6151 www.debtfoundation.org

Harlow Community Hub

Open Monday to Friday 10am to 2pm on 01279 927005

Email harlowcommunityhub@ rainbowservices.org.uk or visit an outreach session.

To find out where the next outreach session will be, scan this QR code.

Harlow Times | winter 2022 www.harlow.gov.uk

Town Centre regeneration

“We will also have full control over what happens to the Harvey Centre and the surrounding land, and that control means we will maintain its key focus as a shopping centre and improve its offer for the benefit of the wider regeneration of the whole town centre.”

Councillor Chris Vince, Leader of the Opposition on the Council, said:

In an ambitious move to support the local economy and take more control over the wider regeneration of Harlow town centre, Harlow Council has bought the Harvey Centre.

The purchase is one of the largest acquisitions made by the council and transforms the authority into one of the biggest town centre land and building owners.

The council purchased the shopping centre after it was put up for sale in June.

The total purchase covers 8.9 acres of land and buildings. It includes the vacant former BHS building which offers a further development opportunity and the cinema leisure extension added in 2016.

The council is borrowing money to fund the purchase and it will receive regular income which will be used to fund future regeneration activities as well as paying off the borrowing.

The Harvey Centre, which has been at the heart of Harlow shopping for over 42 years, will continue to be run on a dayto-day basis by experienced property and asset management companies.

The decision to purchase the centre has cross-party support from the council.

Councillor Dan Swords, Deputy Leader of the Council, said: “This purchase makes us a major player in the town centre with a huge stake in its future. It also gives muchneeded stability and security to the Harvey Centre, the businesses and local people that work there.

“It is probably the biggest town centre decision this council has ever made, but it is not one which has been taken lightly. We have been guided all the way by property experts with extensive shopping centre expertise who have checked and double-checked everything about the centre and its operation.

“There are so many benefits to the regeneration of the town centre from this purchase. Overnight, we become the second biggest building and landowner in the town centre, with this brings serious clout and power which we can use to bring even more private investment into our town centre.

“This is a huge opportunity for Harlow Council to acquire a large amount of land in the town centre after it was sold by the Development Corporation in the 1980s. However, it is also an opportunity to regenerate the existing Harvey Centre and ensure it is protected for future generations to enjoy.

“Of course, this purchase is not without its risks but the risk of doing nothing and the area being land banked is greater. I hope potential business investors recognise the cross party support this acquisition has and the opportunity it has.

“I also look forward to supporting local community groups and charitable organisations to utilise some of the space particularly in difficult times.”

Council housebuilding

In November, plans were approved to build 8 new threebedroom council houses on a disused garage site in Arkwrights. Each home will be provided with appropriate off-street parking, alongside one disabled parking bay at the centre of the site.

This development includes a landscaped central area providing an improved link from Arkwrights to the existing community allotment gardens.

In October, plans were agreed to build 6 new two-bedroom council houses on a derelict garage block in The Woodleys on Minchin Road.

The development will see new car parking spaces provided within the existing hardstanding area, alongside a new block of four garages and a landscaping scheme that will bring improvements to the biodiversity and environment of the adjacent Blackbush Spring Park.

All 14 homes will have high levels of insulation, energy efficient heating, solar panels and electric vehicle charging points. The council will also be looking at the feasibility of installing heat pumps in the new homes.

These are the latest developments to be agreed as part of Harlow Council’s council housebuilding programme which aims to build 99 council homes between 2022 and 2024.

Plans to build 14 new energy-saving homes for Harlow families are the latest developments to be approved as part of our council housebuilding programme.

Artist impression of Arkwrights development.

Council homes for Harlow families

housebuilding update

Councillor Dan Swords, Deputy Leader of the Council, said:

“These are another two developments approved as part of our housebuilding programme which will provide much-needed modern new council homes for Harlow families. These homes in Arkwrights and Woodleys will be built to a very high quality well above the required standard and feature lots of energy saving measures, making them homes which are fit for now and the future.

“Each home will have high levels of insulation and solar panels to keep energy bills low and there will be access to electric vehicle charging points.

“This scheme will not only mean brand new council homes for Harlow families, but another area of our town regenerated. This is a crucial part of the council’s agenda to regenerate our neighbourhoods and restore pride in our town.

“Our housebuilding programme will see hundreds of new houses, apartments, and bungalows built for Harlow families.”

All homes will be allocated to Harlow families on the Harlow Housing Needs Register.

Artist impression of The Woodleys development.

Are you winter ready?

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 also ask everyone to do their bit too.

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.

Need extra support and help?

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 169 9970

Affinity Water also has a priority services register which is free to join for customers who may require extra help.

Severe weather updates

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.

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

For more information visit www.affinitywater.co.uk or phone 0345 357 2406

Harlow Times | winter 2022 www.harlow.gov.uk

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.

Are you winter ready?

What you can do to help

Keep an eye on the welfare of your elderly and vulnerable relatives and neighbours.

Clear snow and ice from the front of your homes and businesses. See our guide to clearing snow and ice.

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.

• 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.

Direct Debits

It is easy to pay your council bills by Direct Debit.

We offer a number of choices of payment dates within the month: 1, 8, 15 and 25 for rent, 5, 15 and 25 for leaseholder service charges and 1, 8, 15 and 25 for Council Tax.

Direct Debit spreads your payments evenly throughout the year and once set up you won’t have to worry about getting behind with payments.

To set up a Direct Debit call Contact Harlow on 01279 446655 or visit our website www.harlow.gov.uk

Social broadband tariffsare you eligible?

Social tariffs for broadband are discounted deals offered by various broadband providers to support households on low income or in financial hardship.

Access to good-quality, reliable broadband is essential for many people. Social tariffs help people access cheaper deals and could save eligible households around £150 per year.

You may be eligible for a social tariff if you are claiming Universal Credit, Pension Credit and some other benefits.

Most tariffs on this scheme offer superfast broadband, making it fast enough for you to keep in touch with friends and family, stream films and shop online. Setup costs, if any, will be small. You can switch to a social tariff at any time free of charge and it costs nothing to leave before the end of your contract. The price is also guaranteed to stay the same for the duration of your contract.

For more information and to check a list of available tariffs, visit www.ofcom.org.uk

Help with paying your rent

or service changes, please contact us on 01279 446655

If

Harlow Times | winter 2022 www.harlow.gov.uk

There is help available to you and the sooner we know about any difficulties the sooner we can help you.

MyHome - your 24 hour service

Harlow Council’s online housing service, MyHome, allows you to manage your tenancy 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, on your computer or mobile device.

With MyHome you can:

• Book and request repairs.

• View your tenancy details.

• Pay your council housing accounts, including rent for your home and/or garage.

• View your rent account details or print off a copy of your statement.

• Request a change of payment method.

• View your contents insurance, supporting people, major works and district heating accounts.

Leaseholders can pay service charges and there is a function for leaseholder landlords to request that all their properties’ accounts are linked.

You can access the service whenever it suits you in a safe and secure way - no queues and no fuss!

Apply for a garage online

You can now apply to rent a council garage online through MyHome.

All residents, not just tenants and leaseholders, can apply by registering on MyHome.

Once your application is approved you are able to check your application status online.

Tenant repair responsibilities

Please visit https://selfserve. harlow.gov.uk/MyAccounts for more information and to register for an account or call Contact Harlow on 01279 446655 for more information or help with registering.

Are you aware of how to report a repair, or what repairs you’re responsible for?

You can find all the information you need to know on reporting repairs, tenant and landlord responsibilities, priority times and a list of all repairs that will be carried out for vulnerable tenants, on our website at www. harlow.gov.uk/housing-repairs

If you don’t have internet access, you can contact Community Engagement Officer Zulfi KianiMackintosh on 01279 446330

Alternatively you can contact us for a leaflet containing all the information you need on 01279 446655.

Harlow Times | winter 2022 www.harlow.gov.uk

Women’s Tour speeds through

town

The country’s longest-running international stage cycling race, The Women’s Tour, came to town in June. The race featured some of the best female cyclists in the world, who were competing in the second stage of the event which started and finished here in Harlow.

It was a fantastic day with schools and cycling fans cheering the riders on as they set off from the Innovation Park.

Harlow

Town Centre masterplan approved

The first step of a three-part plan to drive forward the muchneeded regeneration and transformation of Harlow town centre was agreed in March with the adoption of the town centre masterplan. The masterplan will help to inform developers and guide planning decisions for the town centre.

Historic budget agreed

A Council Tax reduction of up to £50 and major investments to improve the lives of local families in Harlow were approved in February. Alongside the government’s Council Tax energy rebate, Harlow Council Tax this year reduced by £200 for most households.

A review of our

Council homes for Harlow families

A major council housebuilding programme was agreed in March. The programme will see 99 new council homes including houses, apartments and bungalows built between 2022 and 2024 all for Harlow families on the Housing Needs Register. In July the first two developments were completed in Bushey Croft and The Hill, Old Harlow.

Improving existing council homes

In March, a £1.4m project to refurbish flats in The Hides was completed, as part of Harlow Council’s programme of improving council homes. The makeover included revitalising a tired-looking part of the estate and has improved the quality of life for residents.

Harlow Times | winter 2022 www.harlow.gov.uk

Harlow celebrates as history is made

As we approach a are some of our highlights achievements from

£46m town centre redevelopment approved

In October plans for the £46m major redevelopment of buildings and land in Harlow town centre were approved. Plans submitted by the Strawberry Star Group will see the redevelopment of derelict land and existing buildings near the Harvey Centre, opposite Market Square and on Broad Walk, East Gate and West Gate.

review year

a new year, here highlights and from 2022

Harvey Centre purchased

In November we bought the Harvey Centre as part of our plan to support the town centre and its wider regeneration. The centre has been at the heart of shopping for more than 42 years.

Green flags again

Parndon Wood Nature Reserve, Harlow Town Park and Harlow Museum Walled Gardens once again received Green Flag Awards, placing them among the best green spaces in the world. Parndon Wood received the award for the 14th time, the Town Park won it for the seventh time and the Museum Garden for the third time in a row.

Supporting Ukraine

A public donation point collecting humanitarian aid for the people of Ukraine opened at the Civic Centre in March and ran until November. Over 1,000 boxes of items full of donations from the public and businesses were sent out to Ukraine as part of the appeal.

Public backed bid submitted July saw the £20m bid submitted to the government to regenerate Playhouse Square and College Square in Harlow town centre. The bid to the government’s Levelling Up Fund will support the area’s transformation into a vibrant arts and cultural quarter. The plans for the area were updated and improved using feedback from the government and the public.

Polish off your pumpkins, dust off your gowns and get ready for the pantomime of the year at Harlow Playhouse!

This Christmas you are cordially invited to the Harlow Ball as the Harlow Playhouse hosts everybody’s favourite pantomime – Cinderella. This year’s extravaganza, Cinderella, features everything you have come to expect from a Harlow Playhouse pantomime, including hilarious comedy, dazzling dance routines and spectacular sets and costumes that will be the perfect fit this Christmas!

Cinderella longs for a happier and more exciting life away from her wicked stepsisters. Thankfully she has Buttons her loveable companion there to look after her. When the dashing Prince Charming decides to hold a ball to find his future wife, this may just be the chance Cinderella has been waiting for. Can the Fairy Godmother help Cinderella get to the ball? With the help of some mice and a pumpkin – anything is possible!

Join Harlow favourites Jimmy Burton-Iles and Ben Parsley in our BIGGEST and most MAGICAL pantomime to date, featuring a cast of seasoned professionals, lavish sets and costumes and a live band – Harlow Playhouse – YOUR Playhouse is the home of Pantomime in Essex this Christmas! Oh yes it is!

Running from Friday 2 December 2022 to Sunday 8 January 2023, you can book your tickets now for the most magical pantomime adventure! Call the Box Office on 01279 431945 or book online at www.harlowplayhouse.co.uk

harlow playhouse

What’s on this winter

Sports activities

Christmas Holiday Camp

Mark Hall Sports Centre, Kingsmoor Academy and Little Parndon Primary Ages 4 to 11 £15 per day. Free for children who receive free school meals.

Sports and physical activity, arts and crafts, inflatables, Christmas grotto and more. For more information and to book your place, visit: www. changinglivesinharlow.as.me/camps

Changing Lives: Free sports activities for children

Football Club

Community Hub, CM20 1LR

Every Monday during term time. Ages 6 to 8 from 5.15pm to 6pm. Ages 9 to 11 from 6pm to 6.45pm.

Football Club

Community Hub, CM20 1LR

Every Tuesday during term time. Ages 4 to 5 from 5.15pm to 6pm.

Community Cricket Club

SFG College, CM18 6RN

Every Tuesday during term time. Ages 4 to 11 from 5pm to 6pm.

Multi-sport Fun Community Hub, CM20 1LR

Every Wednesday during term time. Ages 7 to 11 from 5.15pm to 6pm.

Multi-sport Fun Community Hub, CM20 1LR

Every Thursday during term time. Ages 4 to 6 from 5.15pm to 6pm.

All sessions are free. For more information, visit: www. changinglivescommunityservices. co.uk/harlow or call 01279 427791

The Open Exhibition 2023 at the Gibberd Gallery can be entered by any artist who was born, studied, currently resides or is working in Harlow.

The entry fee is £5 per piece. Please submit your artworks to Gibberd Gallery, civic Centre, Harlow, CM20 1WG, on Friday 6 January to Saturday 7 January, 11am to 4pm

For more information, visit: www.bit.ly/ harlowopen23 or call 01279 446404

Fascinating new features this year will be small stitched tapestries as well as wire sculptures of birds and insects. Paintings range from flowers and trees to bright abstracts. Following their popularity last year, turned wood plates and vessels and unusual jewellery will be included again.

This exhibition is a feast for the eye and is a great opportunity to acquire a unique and special present, something new for the home, individual cards, and even hand made decorations for the Christmas tree.

Community survey: Proposed new facilities for Harlow community

South East Harlow Sports & Youth Association Community Charity is conducting a community survey throughout December. The survey will help access substantial grants from the Lottery for a new youth, sports and community building for Harlow.

Gibberd Gallery

Civic Centre, The Water Gardens, Harlow, CM20 1WG www.gibberdgallery.co.uk Tel: 01279 594343

Harlow Open: Calling all artists

Thursday 19 January to Saturday 11 March 2023

Parndon Mill Gallery

Parndon Mill Lane, Harlow, CM20 2HP www.parndonmill.co.uk Tel: 01279 426042

PRESENT ARTS

Until 23 December

The Gallery at Parndon Mill Maintaining The Gallery’s high standard, the emphasis at Christmas is on works of art which are affordable. Artists who have studios at the Mill are represented, along with regular exhibitors and some who are new to The Gallery, showing paintings, drawings, prints, sculpture, glass, ceramics, textiles, jewellery, and cards.

Please take part by scanning the QR code or email sehsya@gamail.com

Harlow Arts & Light Entertainment Society (HALES)

HALES is calling out for script writers, voice actors and crew to take part in a new pilot radio show. Whether you’re interested in a production role or acting, there is no experience required, just enthusiasm.

For more information scan the QR code or email hales.society@gmail.com

Event and activity information is correct at time of going to press. Please always check first with the event organiser by calling their contact number or by visiting the relevant website.

New facility to support patients with cancer set to open next spring

A new facility to support our patients with cancer is set to open next spring.

The new Aseptic Unit, which will be used to make chemotherapy medication for patients with cancer, is being built at the rear of The Princess Alexandra Hospital, adjacent to the Williams Day Unit, where patients receive cancer treatment.

The pharmacy team will produce individually prepared chemotherapy treatment doses for oncology and haematology patients at the unit. This will enhance the service, with the new, modern facility supporting the manufacture of specific chemotherapy medications in the required dosages on The Princess Alexandra Hospital site. The improved space and equipment will largely eliminate the current intermittent need for external support.

An extension and renovation to previous office space, the work has begun to transform the area, improving the facilities available for patients ahead of the completion of the new hospital.

The Aseptic Unit will feature a modern suite of pharmacy clean rooms (a sterile environment for manufacturing medications), and equipment

including two negative pressure isolators for the safe handling and preparation of chemotherapy.

There will also be space to accommodate cancer services pharmacists, who clinically validate prescriptions, a dedicated dispensary for oral cancer treatments and other medication, together with a dedicated clinical trial medication office.

John Biddulph, chief pharmacist, said: “We are delighted to see the construction of our new Aseptic Unit progressing at pace.

“This is a significant milestone in producing treatments for patients with cancer, with upto-date technology and equipment. We are looking forward to the opening next spring.”

Stephanie Lawton, chief operating officer, said: “The new Aseptic Unit represents an investment of £2.5million in improving the experience for our patients with cancer and the working environment for our people.

“The modern facility will enhance the high quality care our dedicated teams provide –thank you to everyone involved.”

Innovation and ambition

Harlow & Gilston Garden Town (HGGT) has been recognised with a 2022 Essex Housing Award.

Winners in the Building Garden Communities category, HGGT’s vision for transport across the local area was this year’s outstanding entry.

Essex Housing Award judges said: “An exceptional project and we were impressed by their focus on ‘Streets for People’, making them pleasant to travel in, safe and healthy, less congested, accessible and inclusive, community-centred and enjoyable for all.”

The Garden Town’s five council partnership plans to build a transport network that will give priority to active travel such as walking, cycling and bus routes and creating a healthier population.

The Burnt Mill roundabout to Harlow town centre section of the transport network will begin in early 2023.

Find out more about transport plans for HGGT by visiting hggt.co.uk/journey

Speaking on behalf of Essex County Council, Cllr Lesley Wagland OBE, said: “The Harlow Gilston Garden Town Transport Strategy is a great example of innovation and ambition, developed with our partners to support the delivery of garden community principles, as well as our sustainable transport and net zero ambitions.

“It is fantastic to see the strategy recognised at the Essex Housing Awards this year.”

Cllr Nigel Bedford of Epping Forest District Council commented: “The Garden Town is one of the most exciting regeneration opportunities for sustainable development in the UK and we are proud to be part of it.

“The HGGT Vision identifies four new Garden Neighbourhoods in and around Harlow, all bringing new homes, infrastructure and services to future residents.”

Garden Town Director, Naisha Polaine, added: “The award means such a lot to me and for all the Garden Town team.

“It is a unique partnership of five council partners showing civic leadership at its absolute best.”

The Garden Town have also been consulting on how Harlow residents travel locally with 10,000 random households across the town invited to take part in a survey. Feedback will influence how the council partners create a long-term sustainable and healthy place.

Representing HGGT (l-r): Guy Nicholson, Naisha Polaine, Paul Wilkinson and Ione Braddick.

The way you vote is changing

Do you want to earn some extra money?

We are always looking for people to assist at the elections and there are 3 main roles we recruit for:

• Polling station staff –manning the polling station from 6.15am to 10pm on election day.

• Counting assistants – helping to count ballot papers from 10pm on election day

The government has introduced new voter security measures which means for the first-time, voters will have to show photo ID at the polling station.

Acceptable ID will include a passport, photo driving licence and a national concessionary bus pass. The full list will be available on the back of the poll card.

If you do not have any of the ID required, you can apply for a Voter Authority Certificate that will be posted direct to your registered address. Full details of this process will be published in January.

The next elections to take place will be the local council elections on Thursday 4 May 2023.

You need to be on the electoral register to vote in elections and it may also be helpful when you want to get credit for things such as a mortgage or loan.

Harlow Times | winter 2022 www.harlow.gov.uk

Please note that paying council tax does not automatically add you to the electoral register.

The easiest way to register is to go online. Visit www.gov.uk/ registertovote

Poll cards are changing

A poll card will be sent to all registered electors at the end of March. These will now be A4 sized and delivered in an envelope. The poll card is still for information purposes and not a requirement for voting.

Polling stations will be open 7am to 10pm on Thursday 4 May 2023 however, if you would prefer you can apply for a postal or proxy vote. You can download the application form from our website or contact us on 01279 446042.

Further information can be found by visiting either www.harlow.gov.uk or www. electoralcommission.org.uk

• Postal voting assistants –helping with issuing and opening postal votes, usually half or a full day work in the lead up to the election.

For full details on working at elections and to apply, please visit www.harlow.gov.uk/ voting-and-elections

Are you passionate about your local area?

You could be a local councillor and help make a difference in Harlow. Almost anyone can be a councillor, as an independent or as a member of a political party.

Details about how to stand for election will be published on the Notice of Election and you can find guidance on the Electoral Commission’s website.

Bush Fair

Harlow Common

Councillor Jodi Dunne Labour

c/o Harlow Council, Civic Centre, CM20 1WG Tel: 07378 879710

Email: jodi.dunne@harlow.gov.uk

Councillor Dan Swords

Conservative c/o Harlow Council, Civic Centre, CM20 1WG Tel: 07568 193081

Email: dan.swords@harlow.gov.uk

Councillor Kay Morrison

Labour

199A Hookfield, CM18 6QP Tel: 07736 333105

Email: kay.morrison@harlow.gov.uk

Councillor Mark Wilkinson Labour

56 Sakins Croft, CM18 7BP

Tel: 07718 696429

Email: mark.wilkinson@harlow.gov.uk

Councillor James Leppard

Conservative

c/o Harlow Council, Civic Centre, CM20 1WG Tel: 07454 686809

Email: james.leppard@harlow.gov.uk

Councillor Stacey Seales

Conservative c/o Harlow Council, Civic Centre, CM20 1WG Tel: 07541 141166

Email: stacey.seales@harlow.gov.uk

Councillor Nancy Watson Labour c/o Harlow Council, Civic Centre, CM20 1WG Tel: 07908 518862

Email: nancy.watson@harlow.gov.uk

Church Langley

Councillor Andrew Johnson

Conservative

78 Mallards Rise, CM17 9PL Tel: 865673

Email: andrew.johnson@harlow.gov.uk

Councillor Simon Carter

Conservative 71 Mark Hall Moors, CM20 2NF Tel: 429443

Email: simon.carter@harlow.gov.uk

Councillor Nicky Purse

Conservative

98 Coalport Close, CM17 9QS Tel: 07838 238573

Email: nicky.purse@harlow.gov.uk Portfolio Holder

Councillor Jean Clark Labour

4 Rushmead Villas, CM20 2QE

Tel: 423474

Email: jean.clark@harlow.gov.uk

Councillor Chris Vince Labour

c/o Harlow Council, Civic Centre, CM20 1WG Tel: 07729 406011

Email: chris.vince@harlow.gov.uk

Councillor Tony Durcan Labour

329 Rundells, CM18 7HN Tel: 414357

Email: anthony.durcan@harlow.gov.uk

Councillor Sue Livings

Conservative 15 Seeleys, CM17 0AD Tel: 422339

Email: sue.livings@harlow.gov.uk

Netteswell

Sumners & Kingsmoor

Councillor Colleen Morrison

Conservative

c/o Harlow Council, Civic Centre, CM20 1WG Tel: 07445 390675 (Text only)

Email: colleen.morrison@harlow.gov.uk

Councillor James Griggs Labour

129 Broadfield, CM20 3PY Tel: 07877 424834

Email: james.griggs@harlow.gov.uk

Councillor Clive Souter Conservative 227 Longbanks, CM18 7PB Tel: 07850 667900

Email: clive.souter@harlow.gov.uk

Councillor Russell Perrin Conservative c/o Harlow Council, Civic Centre, CM20 1WG Email: russell.perrin@harlow.gov.uk

Councillor Nick Churchill Conservative c/o Harlow Council, Civic Centre, CM20 1WG Tel: 621094

Email: nick.churchill@harlow.gov.uk

Councillor Michael Garnett Conservative Brook House, Wyldwood Close, CM17 0JD Tel: 437401

Email: michael.garnett@harlow.gov.uk

Councillor Joel Charles

Conservative 86 Jocelyns, CM17 0BU Tel: 07752 096765

Email: joel.charles@harlow.gov.uk

Councillor Daniella Pritchard Labour

c/o Harlow Council, Civic Centre, CM20 1WG Tel: 07710 529374

Email: daniella.pritchard@harlow.gov.uk

Great Parndon

Mark Hall

Councillor David Carter

Conservative

23 Greygoose Park, CM19 4JL Tel: 420340

Email: david.carter@harlow.gov.uk

Councillor Eddie Johnson

Conservative

c/o Harlow Council, Civic Centre, CM20 1WG Tel: 312195

Email: eddie.johnson@harlow.gov.uk

Councillor Stephen LeMay

Conservative

21 The Drive, CM20 3QD

Tel: 07840 852349

Email: stephen.lemay@harlow.gov.uk

Councillor Bob Davis

Labour

c/o Harlow Council, Civic Centre, CM20 1WG Tel: 07749 393037

Email: bob.davis@harlow.gov.uk

Councillor Matthew Saggers

Conservative c/o Harlow Council, Civic Centre, CM20 1WG Tel: 07305 777819

Email: matthew.saggers@harlow.gov.uk

Councillor Lanie Shears Labour c/o Harlow Council, Civic Centre, CM20 1WG Tel: 07906 870935

Email: lanie.shears@harlow.gov.uk

Councillor John Strachan

Labour

c/o Harlow Council, Civic Centre, CM20 1WG Tel: 323656 / 07941 829965

Email: john.strachan@harlow.gov.uk

Staple Tye

Councillor Alastair Gunn

Conservative 11 Penshurst, CM17 0BP Tel: 07850 261771

Email: alastair.gunn@harlow.gov.uk Portfolio Holder

Councillor Michael Hardware

Conservative

12a Hart Road, Harlow, CM17 0HL Tel: 07775 925274

Email: michael.hardware@harlow.gov.uk

Essex County Councillors

Toddbrook

Cabinet Members

Councillor Russell Perrin - Leader of Harlow Council

Councillor Ash Malik

Conservative

c/o Harlow Council, Civic Centre, CM20 1WG Tel: 07761 780856

Email: ash.malik@harlow.gov.uk

Councillor Tony Edwards Labour

c/o Harlow Council, Civic Centre, CM20 1WG Tel: 07544 374168

Email: tony.edwards@harlow.gov.uk

Councillor Joel Charles - Portfolio Holder for Business and Community Resilience

Councillor Alastair Gunn - Portfolio Holder for Governance

Councillor Michael Hardware - Portfolio Holder for Strategic Growth

Councillor Stephen LeMay - Portfolio Holder for HTS, Properties and Facilities – with special responsibility for the roads

Councillor James Leppard - Portfolio Holder for Finance

Councillor Nicky Purse - Portfolio Holder For Environment

Councillor Dan Swords - Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Regeneration

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

Little Parndon & Hare Street

Old Harlow

DEPUTY LEADER

LEADER

“Every child deserves a home, deserves happiness, and the same opportunities as anybody else.”

The inclusion of free or paid for advertisements does not imply endorsement by Harlow Council of any product or service. Terms and conditions apply. There may be occasions when advertising space is not available in an edition. If this occurs we will offer space in the next available edition of the magazine.

For more information on advert space, submission deadlines, artwork and costs please email: communications@harlow.gov.uk

Meals on Wheels Service

Campling foods “Meals on Wheels” service is dedicated to delivering hot, freshly prepared meals daily to the elderly and vulnerable in our community.

Have you got a elderly neighbour, relative or friend that is struggling to cook nutritious meals for themselves?

Look no further! At Campling Foods we deliver hot, fresh, homemade meals to those in need each and every day of the year!

No contracts or minimum orders.

Developed by our talented team, we offer a choice of comforting and familiar meals that are not only nutritious - but delicious too!

We also include a tasty homemade desert with each and every order, all for a total price of £6.99 per day, delivered. If you have any questions please contact us today on 07507 763078 camplingfoods.co.uk CamplingFoods

Free tasty dessert with every order. Free delivery.

Public engagement

Community Safety engagement events continue, with officers visiting different areas of Harlow. If you would like us to be part of a local event that you are organising, contact us via email HarlowCPT@ Essex.Police.uk

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)

#protectingandservingHarlow

they stopped a man who was found to be in possession of numerous wraps of suspected Class A drugs, SIM cards, a burner phone and other drug supplying items. He was arrested for possession with intent to supply Class A drugs.

A section 18 house search was authorised, and more suspected Class A drugs were located. The man was interviewed and bailed pending further investigation.

hours of foot patrols, taken more than 100 alcoholic beverages from the hands of drinkers, and seized 75 e-scooters.

Look out for our Coffee with Cops and Street meets. For further details please look at and follow our Facebook and Twitter pages.

Crime prevention

Scam alert – British Gas refund Beware of a phishing email which appears to be from British Gas. The scam claims you are due a refund for overpaying in 2020-21 and will ask you to follow a link to claim the refund of £315.

The email generally contains a fake 7-digit reference that starts with BG and the British Gas logo. If in doubt about an email, contact the organisation directly and do not click on any links. The legitimate organisation will be happy to help and not pressure you into providing unnecessary information. You can report suspicious emails to report@phishing.gov.uk

Protecting and serving Harlow Harlow District Community Policing Team officers were conducting mobile patrols around Potter Street in November, when

Harlow Times | winter 2022 www.harlow.gov.uk

PS Andrew Kirkby said “We work hard to detect and deter crime to protect our communities. We will always tackle drugs and drug dealing as it has a detrimental effect on our residents.”

If you know anyone who is drug dealing or have concerns about drugs, contact the Harlow Community Policing Team.

A new operation is underway in Harlow to crack down on antisocial behaviour in the town centre. The pedestrianised streets around Market Square, Broad Walk and the Water Gardens have seen people congregating to drink alcohol, nuisance behaviour from groups of youngsters and the illegal riding of e-scooters. Residents, business owners and those visiting the town centre told officers this behaviour left them feeling uncomfortable and intimidated.

As a result, Operation Shopper was launched. Now in into its third month, officers have undertaken an additional 250

Harlow town centre is covered by a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO). Put in place by the council, it prohibits the public consumption of alcohol in the town centre. The riding of privately owned e-scooters in public areas is illegal.

Harlow District Commander Chief Inspector Paul Austin said the increased visibility of officers in the town centre had been well received. Read more on our website.

We’re offering more ways of keeping up to date with our work across Essex through our weekly e-newsletter, called Dispatch. Dispatch brings together news and information published by our officers, staff and volunteers from Essex Police, along with crime prevention advice, information about our latest job vacancies, top tweets from our Twitter accounts and remembering former colleagues who have sadly died.

You can sign up for the Harlow district editions by scanning this QR code.

Bins and recycling

What to do with your extra Christmas 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/recycling

You can put all of these in your fortnightly recycling collection

You can put all of these in your weekly food waste caddy meat and bones

cheese and dairy

bread, cake and pastries

tea bags and coffee grounds fruit and vegetable peelings

Extra food waste can be put in compostable liners on top of your caddy or in a small cardboard box. For more information on what you can put in your food caddy, visit www.harlow.gov.uk/food

Take charge

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:

Dead batteries thrown away with the non-recycling can ignite or even explode when they’re damaged. We offer a free battery collection on nonrecycling collection days.

Batteries should be placed in a plastic bag or small cardboard box, clearly labelled and placed out for collection alongside your bin or purple bags on collection day. Please do not put batteries into your non-recycling bin or purple bags.

To find out what batteries the service will accept, visit www. harlow.gov.uk/battery-waste

Green waste subscription service reminder

There will be no green waste service collections from 19 December 2022 to 1 January 2023. Collections will then follow the catch-up schedule; you can check your revised Christmas collection days on our website.

As usual, other bookable services will also be suspended between Christmas and New Year.

Recycle your Christmas tree and we will turn your money into a donation

You can recycle your real tree with us for just £2.30. We will donate all the money to the Chair’s charities Streets2Homes and Harlow Rock School, with Veolia matching every donation. Book a collection at: www. harlow.gov.uk/christmas-trees

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 to find out what you should do with your extra waste. Clean

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.

What to do with bins in extreme weather

During heavy snow and in icy conditions, recycling and waste collections can be disrupted. You should continue to put out your bins until they are collected, unless advised otherwise by us. For up-to-the minute information, visit www.harlow.gov.uk