A new stage at the heart of Harlow as the bandstand returns next summer
In this edition
Cover image: Remembering Harlow’s bandstand
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When I became Leader of Harlow Council, I made a promise to give everything I have to this role because I care deeply about Harlow, its people, its communities, and its potential.
Four months ago, we set out our bold vision for Building Harlow’s Future A commitment A promise A mission to transform our town for generations to come, because Building Harlow’s Future is not just about buildings It’s about people Communities and opportunity Guided by six missions, every step we take is shaping a better tomorrow.
I know that too many residents have not yet felt the benefit of the transformation we are delivering In fact, I know that some of you do not believe we will deliver And I understand why For decades, Harlow has been overlooked and underinvested in We have been let down by so many who promised much and failed.This time, it is different.
Every waking moment is dedicated to transforming this town for a generation. Our staff, councillors, and so many others are giving everything they have.
We are turning plans into action, and the results are clear and growing every day The scale of change we are delivering is sometimes hard to comprehend, whether it’s the biggest regeneration programme in the country, being one of the most improved councils in the UK, or building more council homes than in the past 30 years combined.
And delivering our plan isn’t without unforeseen challenges, like the tragic fire at the bandstand These all add complexity, but they only strengthen our resolve to get it right.
ThisisaboutHarlow-and Harlowalone.
It’s about a council that works for you, delivering the services you rely on, while freezing your council tax
It’s about a town centre that feels alive again, full of places to shop, eat, meet friends, have a night out and enjoy time with family
It’s about homes that are safe, well-maintained and for Harlow residents.
It’s about neighbourhoods that feel cared for, cleaner streets, better maintenance, and stronger, closer communities
It’s about giving your children and grandchildren opportunities to thrive here, without having to leave the town they grow up in.
It’s about making Harlow safer, so everyone can live without worry at any time of day
Every decision, every project, every improvement, it’s all for the future of our town
In this edition of Harlow Times we set out the progress we have made over the last few months in delivering on these six missions, to show the planning, the hard work and the pride that is transforming Harlow.Together, we are not just imagining change, we are delivering it, driven by one simple, unwavering purpose: Building Harlow’s Future.
DanSwords Leader, Harlow Council
Are you ready to vote?
The 2025 Annual Canvass is nearly complete and the new electoral register will be published on 1 December.
If you have received a canvass form, please respond as soon as possible The quickest way to do this is at www.householdresponse.com/ harlow.
You will need the security codes that are printed on the letter or you can email elections@harlow.gov.uk.
The canvass form is not a registration form, so any new eligible individuals will be asked to register by visiting www.gov.uk/registertovote.
Please register by Thursday 20 November 2025 so that your name is included on the new electoral register
For more information visit www.harlow.gov.uk/voting-andelections or visit www.electoralcommission.org.uk/ i-am-a/voter.
You can contact us by calling 01279 446042 or email elections@harlow.gov.uk.
Watch
meetings online
Did you know that you can watch some council meetings online?
www.harlow.gov.uk/webcasts
Celebrating Harlow’s cultural explorers
Harlow Creates celebrated 24 young Cultural Explorers at Harlow Playhouse for completing the town’s summer culture challenge.
Children aged 4 to 11 visited six venues, collecting stamps in their Cultural Passport booklets. Councillor Sue Livings awarded prizes and certificates to participants and venue staff
Over 3,000 passports were distributed, encouraging families to explore Harlow’s cultural offerings. Plans are already underway for an even bigger challenge next year
Kao Data SEED Fund
Kao Data has launched its SEED Fund in Harlow to support local community groups and charities.
Working in partnership with Harlow Council, the fund offers grants of £500–£2,500 for grassroots projects.
The initiative aims to strengthen community connections and empower local organisations
Recognition for Harlow’s volunteers
Harlow Council recognised the contributions of dozens of local volunteers who support services across the town, including Pets’ Corner, Harlow Museum, Town Park, and the Playhouse, at a special awards ceremony.
Volunteers were thanked for their dedication and presented with certificates The council highlighted the value of volunteering and encouraged more residents to get involved in roles that support the community and local environment.
If you want to get involved in volunteering in Harlow, visit www.harlow.gov.uk/ volunteering
Book services, pay council bills, report issues and much more via our website.
You can check your bin collection days, apply for housing and find out about council services and community facilities in your area
Visit www.harlow.gov.uk and set up an account to access our online services.
Sign up for our email newsletter and get the latest news straight to your inbox.
Our newsletter goes out to residents every fortnight and features our consultations, our latest plans, and other opportunities for you to have your say
If you would like to receive the regular updates, you can sign up on our website: www.harlow.gov.uk/ newsletter-sign-up
Cutting waste, boosting value
Harlow Council is undergoing a radical transformation, reshaping how local government serves its residents.
Under the “Building Harlow’s Future” programme, the council has restructured its internal operations, delivering improved performance across nearly every service area, all while maintaining a Council Tax freeze.
This transformation is not just about efficiency; it’s about putting residents first. Services are now designed around outcomes, not processes. Whether it’s housing repairs, street cleaning, or community safety, the council is focused on delivering tangible improvements that people can see and feel.
Every service, every decision, every pound spent is now focused on delivering for the residents of Harlow.
WearebuildingHarlow’s future,andthatstarts withtransformingthe councilitself.
Your council, just a call away
In August, we introduced a new and improved phone system designed to make it quicker and easier for you to get in touch with us.
This upgrade marks an important step forward in transforming how we serve our community and enhancing your experience with Harlow Council. Don’t worry - our number hasn’t changed.You can still reach us on 01279 446655.
Transforming how we serve you
In the summer we launched a major review of our customers services to ensure every resident receives the fast, responsive service they deserve, whether that be online, by phone or in person.
We are refreshing how our customer services are being delivered.We will be building on the improvements that we have already made, but we want to go further to ensure these services continue to evolve and meet your needs.
This is part of our commitment to transforming and enhancing the way we support you, making the services more accessible, efficient and resident focused.
Investing in Harlow’s future
We are committed to transforming Harlow for a generation.
We are increasing overall investment to deliver our six missions by 41% whilst at the same time freezing Harlow CouncilTax for a fourth year in a row.In 2025/26 we will invest a total of £244 million to deliver every single pledge we’ve made Our budget is fully funded, with no gaps, no cuts, no job losses and no hidden surprises.
This is a fully funded, forward looking budget that puts residents first and delivers on our promise to Build Harlow’s Future.
Putting Harlow at the heart of local government change
The government is changing the way councils across Essex are run and as these plans take shape, our top priority remains clear: to do what’s best for the people of Harlow
That’s why we are backing the creation of a West Essex Unitary Authority, which puts Harlow at its heart.
We believe that Harlow deserves a strong voice, one that reflects our unique identity, growth, and ambition
By supporting a West Essex Unitary Authority, we can ensure that local services truly represent Harlow’s people and priorities, driving forward our shared vision to Build Harlow’s Future
This will deliver the larger local authority the government wants as well as retaining our strong local identity and sense of place
Be part of the team transforming our town
Do you want to make a real difference in the town where you live?
Join us and be part of the team that’s transforming Harlow for the future.
We’re Building Harlow’s Future, creating a cleaner, safer, and more vibrant town for everyone.
Visit www.harlow.gov.uk/jobs to discover the latest opportunities and see how you can help shape Harlow’s next chapter
As discussions continue, we’ll keep residents informed every step of the way Whatever the government eventually decides, it won’t mean losing local services, it’s just fewer councils will be responsible for delivering them.
This is about more than just structural change - it’s about shaping a local government that works for Harlow, supports our regeneration, and helps our town reach its full potential
To find out more visit: http://www.essexlgrhub.org/stronger-greateressex
From plans to progress: a new gateway for the town centre
The work to transform Terminus Street and the bus station is well underway and a major step in our plan to comprehensively rebuild the town centre After years of decline, regeneration is now becoming real
Ground works are well underway as we build a new transport hub which will be modern, accessible and better connected This will create a welcoming gateway into Harlow and supporting the town’s longterm growth.
The new bus station will sit at the heart of the town centre, linking seamlessly with new pedestrian routes, public spaces, and retail areas. It’s designed to improve the experience for passengers while encouraging more people to visit and spend time in the town centre
Alongside the bus station redevelopment, the adjacent Terminus House is also set for full redevelopment following the council’s purchase of the b ilding
Reviving Market Square
This autumn work is commencing to transform Market Square into a vibrant hub for leisure and hospitality
Plans include new bars and restaurants, night life, high-quality office space, a water feature, outdoor dining and space for street trading markets – all aimed at creating a lively, attractive destination
Around Market Square, refurbishments to the recently purchased Adams House and Market House will further add to the improvements
Thecouncil’sambitious regenerationprogrammeis reshapingthetowncentre.
Harlow’s icon to shine again
The iconic Market Square clock at Adams House - a landmark filled with memories for Harlow residentsis set to be restored and will proudly feature in the town’s transformation.
With the council now owning both Adams House and Market House, the buildings will be redeveloped as part of the wider Market Square regeneration.
The restoration of the Adams House clock is not only a tribute to Harlow’s heritage but also a symbol of its bright and ambitious future.
Broad Walk reimagined: the heart of a new
Harlow
Every day brings us closer to Broad Walk’s transformation, as we move from plans to real progress
Slab by slab, step by step, Broad Walk’s new future is taking shape before our eyes
And this Christmas, Broad Walk will shine brighter than ever On 6 December, the street will come alive with twinkling lights, live music, and festive cheer as we kick off the celebrations Then, from 13 to 21 December, Broad Walk will be transformed into a magical Winter Wonderland, complete with a brand new Christmas market, filled with festive stalls, seasonal treats, and holiday fun for all the family.
A cultural quarter for the future
Work is now underway on the creation of a new Arts and Cultural Quarter in Playhouse Square.
Once complete it will feature a live performance venue, music school, studios, and a public square, placing arts and culture at the heart of Harlow’s future and supporting creative talent across the town
Together, these projects will dramatically improve the northern entrance to the town centre
Regenerating Terminus House
We have agreed a deal to buy Terminus House and have now exchanged contracts on the purchase. Before the sale is completed and ownership of the building, car park, and surrounding land are transferred, the current owners must move all tenants out of the property.
Now that contracts have been exchanged, we’re moving full steam ahead to secure planning permission to regenerate the site. This means that the moment the deal completes, we can move quickly to begin transforming this key part of the town centre.
Terminus House has blighted Harlow’s town centre for too long, used by London boroughs as temporary accommodation. It has caused significant antisocial behaviour and stood in the way of the town centre’s regeneration That’s why we have taken this decisive action to purchase the property
This purchase is a landmark moment for our town and is a major step forward in our mission to rebuild Harlow’s town centre, removing barriers to progress and creating space for a vibrant, modern development that our town can be proud of.
Harlow homes for Harlow families
We’ve now completed the rollout of our new Housing Allocations Policy, ensuring that Harlow homes are for Harlow people.
The new policy prioritises those born and bred in Harlow for all council housing, making sure that local families who have built their lives here are given the recognition and support they deserve.
With these changes, Harlow residents in housing need are now much more likely to access council housing. The new system we’ve introduced also makes the application process quicker, clearer, and easier, helping residents get the support they need without unnecessary delay.
This is a major step forward in our commitment to build a fairer, more transparent housing system - one that puts local families first and ensures that Harlow’s homes continue to serve Harlow’s community.
Transforming Housing Services for Harlow tenants
This year, £51 million is being invested to upgrade council homes and strengthen longterm maintenance across Harlow.
Alongside major reforms to our housing repairs service, tenants are already benefiting from a faster, fairer, and more reliable service - one built around safety, quality, and care
We are committed to putting tenant safety and wellbeing at the heart of everything we do From fire safety measures to tackling damp and mould, from environmental improvements to better communication, we’re determined to provide homes that are safe, well maintained, and managed with care
Our housing services are delivering real results. We’ve reduced the longest repair wait time from 270 days to just 25 days and now have the lowest number of outstanding repairs on record.
We’ve also made it quicker and easier to report and resolve issues such as damp and mould, ensuring that people’s homes remain safe and comfortable
At the same time, we’re investing in enhanced staff training programmes to strengthen communication and ensure that every tenant feels heard, respected, and supported
Our goal is to deliver a housing service that is not only more efficient, but also more empathetic and responsive to the diverse needs of our tenants.
We are committed to continuously improving the safety, quality, and responsiveness of our housing services - building a housing system that Harlow tenants can truly rely on and be proud of
than in the last 30 years combined
Building homes, building futures for Harlow families
We’re building more council homes for Harlow families than in the last 30 years combined - with construction now underway on multiple sites right across the town.
From Pytt Field to StapleTye,TheYorkes to Arkwrights, and Elm Hatch to Sherards House, new homes are rising fast.Every week brings fresh progress - with more sites breaking ground or moving closer to completion
This is not just about bricks and mortar;it’s about real homes and real futures for Harlow families.Our mission is clear:to build more, better-quality, energy-efficient homes that meet the needs of residents today and for generations to come
Our council housebuilding programme is about more than construction.It’s about breathing new life into old derelict sites, creating opportunity, and giving Harlow families the security of a home they can be proud of
We’re building new council homes at pace. And to be clear, these are council homes for Harlow families
Transforming Harlow, estate by estate
Following a successful trial, our new Street Scene Priority Taskforce is now permanent, and powering ahead Street by street, estate by estate, the team is making Harlow cleaner, safer, and prouder
From removing abandoned signs to repairing broken railings, the taskforce is out across the town every day, tackling the small jobs that make a big difference They’ve already completed hundreds of improvements, with hundreds more on the way.
Brightening up Harlow
We’ve launched a new programme to give Harlow’s road signs, bollards, and street furniture a much needed clean-up.
Refreshing the everyday features we pass by each day might seem small, but it makes a big difference. Cleaner, brighter streets help to lift the look and feel of our neighbourhoods, making them more welcoming, safer, and something we can all take pride in.
This work is part of our wider commitment to improving public spaces and restoring pride in Harlow, one street at a time.
Rapid estate enhancements
This autumn, Harlow Council is launching the next phase of its ambitious estate improvement programme, transforming neighbourhoods across the town to make them safer, cleaner, and better for everyone.
Following a successful project in Milwards earlier this summer our teams will now be out across seven more estates in the coming months, delivering real change and visible results.
This new programme will focus on restoring pride in our neighbourhoods, tackling local issues, and making sure that every estate feels cared for and secure
The programme is part of our wider mission to build pride in where we live, help residents feel safe in their communities, and create places everyone can be proud to call home
More spaces, less stress: improv parking in Harlow
We know that limited and inconsiderate parkin among the biggest concerns for residents acr estates
That’s why, over this financial year, we are delivering 1,000 new residential parking s across Harlow, with hundreds already completed and hundreds more on the way
This ambitious programme includes resurfaci clearer layouts, improved lighting, and new sig transforming unused or underused areas into practical parking spaces for our residents
We are making residential parking safer, more accessible, and better lit, ensuring our neighbourhoods work better for everyone who Harlow home.
Progress is already being made, and there’s m more to come
We want to hear from you; where do you think parking spaces are needed most? Let us kno help shape the next phase of improvements
w is famous for its beautiful green spaces s official once again.
of our town’s most cherished parks and ns have been recognised among the best-kept spaces, after securing prestigious Green Flag s
ear, Harlow Town Park, Parndon Wood Nature ve, and the Harlow Museum Walled Gardens ll achieved Green Flag status, recognising xceptional standards of care, cleanliness, and unity value
wards are a testament to the dedication of our l staff, volunteers, and HTS operatives, whose ork keeps these much loved spaces looking est all year round.
e first time ever, the Harlow Museum Walled ns have also received Green Heritage Site ditation, celebrating the team’s work to restore otect the garden’s historical features
ncredibly lucky to have such beautiful, awardwinning green spaces right here in our town - places that everyone can enjoy and take pride in
SECURE
Coming soon to Harlow!
Exciting things are on the way for Harlow with the brand new David Lloyd Club set to open its doors in December 2025.
This state-of-the-art facility will be a fantastic addition to the town, providing residents with highquality sporting and leisure facilities right on their doorstep.
The new David Lloyd Club represents a £28 million investment in Harlow, bringing with it not only top class facilities but also a significant boost to the local economy The development will create well paid jobs and apprenticeships for local people
This is another major milestone in Harlow’s regeneration story, delivering new opportunities, new facilities, and a healthier, more vibrant town for everyone.
Construction at the new David Lloyd is motoring on at pace It will be a fantastic new facility for Harlow residents which will be opening later this year.
Major boost for Harlow’s future as IKEA opens its new store
This summer marked a major milestone for Harlow as IKEA officially opened its new store on EdinburghWay.
The arrival of this world renowned retailer is a strong sign of confidence and investment in Harlow’s future.
The new store will be more than just a shopping destination, it’s a major boost for local jobs, skills and a great boost to our local economy.
IKEA’s decision to choose Harlow reflects the town’s growing reputation as a great place to live, work, and do business.
It’s another important step forward as we continue to s future and create a stronger, more vibrant y for everyone.
g Harlow’s future at the on Park
novationParkisagrowinghubforlife nologyandadvancedmanufacturingand acornerstoneofHarlow’seconomicfuture
elopmentknownasIdentity,representsa£30 entthatwillbringhundredsofnewjobsand mployerstothetown
sHarlow’sgrowingreputationasaplace onmeetsopportunity,andwhereboldideas prosperousfutureforgenerationstocome.
Landmark moment as Harlow sec world class new campus
Harlow has secured a world class UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) campus - a once in generation investment that will transform the to future and cement its position as a national cen science and innovation.
The new campus will create 2,750 high-quality support 1,600 construction roles, and inject aro £80 million each year into the local economy.
Placing this world-leading centre for health res and innovation at the heart of Harlow is a landm moment, one that will put the town on the natio and global stage, attract further investment, an inspire the next generation of scientists, resear and skilled workers
Securing UKHSA campus reinforces Harlow’s reputation as a town of innovation, opportunity ambition This marks an exciting new chapter in story of Harlow’s regeneration and future succe
Transforming the walking route from Harlow Town Station to the town centre
New funding from Greater Anglia has been secured to transform the walking route between Harlow Town train station and the town centre, creating a safer, more attractive, and welcoming gateway into Harlow.
For too long, this important route has been confusing and uninviting for residents and visitors But that’s about to change.The new investment will deliver a complete transformation, making the journey from the station to the town centre simpler to navigate, safer to use, and far more enjoyable
Plans include digital signage, creative murals and upgraded landscaping to create a safer, more scenic and clearly signposted path
This project is part of our wider work to improve connections across the town, making it easier for people to move between key destinations while showcasing Harlow as a vibrant, welcoming place to live, work, and visit.
Tough action to protect our communities
Making Harlow safer, day and night
We are expanding and upgrading our CCTV network across Harlow to help keep our town safe
Everyone in our town should feel safe, day and night, in every corner of Harlow, and in their own homes.
That’s why we’re taking firm action to crack down on antisocial behaviour by council tenants who cause misery for their neighbours.
Over the summer, we secured a closure order on a property in Barn Mead that had been the source of persistent and serious complaints.
We are clear: antisocial behaviour has no place in town, and we will continue to take tough action to protect residents and restore pride and peace in our neighbourhoods
Right now, we operate more than 200 cameras covering residential flat blocks, shopping centres, neighbourhood hatches, the skatepark, and Pets’ Corner Working closely with the police, our CCTV team provides vital evidence to help bring offenders to justice.
We are now installing new high-definition cameras and upgrading equipment across the town to strengthen our ability to tackle crime and antisocial behaviour in partnership with the police
And this is just the start - even more advanced technology will be rolled out in the future to further enhance our coverage and capability
This investment is part of our wider commitment to prevent crime, reduce antisocial behaviour, and build strong, confident communities where everyone feels safe - day and night, in every corner of Harlow
Clamping down on antisocial behaviour
We are taking firm action to make our communities safer by cracking down on antisocial behaviour (ASB) across the town
During ASB Awareness Week, we reaffirmed our commitment to tackling the issue head on - through stronger enforcement, closer partnerships, and visible action in our neighbourhoods
Working closely with Essex Police, local schools, and community organisations, we are focusing on known hotspots, reclaiming public spaces, and supporting residents affected by antisocial behaviour.
The message is clear: antisocial behaviour will not be tolerated Every resident deserves to feel safe, respected, and proud of their community - day and night, in every part of Harlow.
This work is part of a wider commitment to build safer, stronger, and more connected communities, where people can live confidently and take pride in the place they call home
Standing up against domestic abuse
There is no excuse for domestic abuse and it has no place in Harlow
That’s why we have introduced a new Domestic Abuse Policy to take meaningful action: supporting victims and survivors, while holding perpetrators to account
Through this policy, we’re strengthening how we respond to domestic abuse, making sure that those affected receive the help, protection, and understanding they need.
We’re also working closely with our partners, including the police and specialist support organisations, to ensure that every person in Harlow feels safe, supported and empowered to live free from fear and abuse
Because action speaks louder than words and Harlow stands united against domestic abuse
If you are a victim of domestic abuse, you are not alone and if you, or someone you know, needs help or advice, visit www.harlow.gov.uk/domestic-abuse to find information about the support available
Bandstand rebuild begins with demolitions and community vision
Work has been completed to demolish the remains of the bandstand in Harlow Town Park, following the fire that tragically destroyed it
This marks the first step in Harlow Council’s eight-stage plan to rebuild the iconic venue and restore its role as a focal point for music and community life
The council’s plan includes:
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Clear and secure the site –with protective hoardings featuring historic photos
Appoint an architect –to design a modern, accessible bandstand that honours its heritage.
Involve the community –inviting residents to share ideas and memories.
Appoint a contractor –to carry out the rebuild.
Design the new bandstand –incorporating community feedback.
Secure planning permission – to allow construction to begin.
Rebuild the bandstand – restoring a landmark for events and concerts.
Celebrate the reopening –with a launch event marking its return.
The rebuild is about more than restoring a structure; it’s about reviving a space that belongs to the people of Harlow.
To mark the announcement of the rebuild, a special “See You Soon” music event took place in the Town Park on 19 October, celebrating local talent and looking ahead to the bandstand’s future.
This report is all about you - your homes, your feedback, and the services that matter most to you.
Each year, tenants and leaseholders from Harlow Housing Standards Panels work closely with Harlow Council to shape this report. Together, we highlight what’s working, what needs improving, and how we’re performing against national standards. Most importantly, we show how your voice is helping to shape the future of housing in Harlow.
Why This Report Matters
We produce this report because it’s required by the Regulator of Social Housing (RSH) - but more importantly, it’s a chance to be transparent and accountable to you. The RSH sets the standards for social housing providers, and we’re committed to meeting those standards with your involvement at the heart of everything we do.
A Message from the Council
Last year was tough. Rising inflation and the cost-of-living crisis affected many households, and we know how hard that’s been. That’s why we’ve focused on tenancy sustainment, offering welfare and debt advice to help you stay secure in your home.
Despite financial pressures, we’ve made real progress:
• Cleared the housing repairs backlog
• Introduced a new housing allocations policy focused on “Harlow homes for Harlow people”
• Carried out tenancy audits to improve service delivery
New legislation from the Building Safety, Fire Safety, and Social Housing Acts keeps our focus on safety and quality. We’re committed to providing secure homes, listening to your needs, and tailoring services to support you and your neighbourhood.
Looking Ahead
We’re working to:
• Build more affordable homes to meet growing demand
• Tackle rising homelessness
• Invest in existing housing stock to improve energy efficiency and reduce fuel poverty
• Cut carbon emissions and provide decent, sustainable homes
Your Voice, Your Impact
We believe in putting you at the centre of everything we do. There are many ways to get involved - whether it’s giving feedback on reports like this, joining panels, or working on projects to improve homes and communities.
Your views help us make better decisions, improve services, and create a housing environment that truly reflects your needs.
Councillor David Carter
Portfolio Holder for Housing
Transparency, Influence and Accountability
This standard focuses on providing opportunities for tenant involvement and empowerment; supporting customers to scrutinise and improve services; having a clear focus on good customer service, choice and complaints and having a clear understanding and response to the diverse needs of our customers.
Involving tenants and leaseholders
This is one of four standards that registered providers of social housing, like Harlow Council, must comply with. We encourage tenants and leaseholders to share their views through events, consultations, and estate inspections held throughout the year.
Complaints
Tenant Satisfaction Measures
The Regulator of Social Housing has a system for assessing how well social housing landlords in England provide good quality homes and services. In addition to consumer standards, there are a set of Tenant Satisfaction Measures (TSMs) that these landlords must report on. Harlow Council has 22 TSMs. 12 are collected through tenant perception surveys and 10 from the management information.
For more information on our TSMs, visit: https:// www.harlow.gov.uk/housing-and-garages/ council-tenants/tenant-satisfaction-measures
Safety and Quality Standard
This standard focuses on the provision of quality homes that meet the Decent Homes Standard, a cost-effective repairs and maintenance service, the health and safety of customers, and providing an adaptations service that meets customer needs.
Tenancy Standard
This standard focuses on the way homes are allocated and how tenants are supported to maintain their tenancy.
Neighbourhood and community
This standard focuses on the cleanliness and safety of neighbourhoods and communal areas; the promotion of social, environmental, economic wellbeing and the prevention and tackling of anti-social behaviour (ASB).
Making money matter
Harlow Council works to improve services and deliver value for money by learning from other housing providers and comparing performance.
What’sonthisautumn
Gibberd Gallery
Civic Centre, The Water Gardens, Harlow, CM20 1WG
Wednesday to Saturday, 11am to 4pm (Closed Sundays and Bank Holidays)
Touch Point:
The Graham Collection Represented Until Saturday 13 December 2025
Touch Point celebrates a major gift to Harlow Art Trust from architect John Graham
Revisiting his 2006 exhibition, it brings together works from his collection alongside those of Sir Frederick Gibberd and the Foundation for Essex Arts, featuring artworks by major 20th century artists including Ben, Winifred & Kate Nicholson, Edward Bawden, Wilhelmina Barns-Graham and John Piper
For more information, please email gallery@harlowarttrust.org.uk
Conservation Talk with Antoinette Hachler
Saturday 22 November, 2pm
Join expert conservator Antoinette Hachler for a behind-the-scenes talk on caring for artworks, using pieces from Touch Point: The Graham Collection Re-presented Discover how conservators protect prints, drawings and frames Free for Friends & Sculpture Guardians.
Tickets:£5
To book:
Email: gallery@harlowarttrust org uk and put Conservation Talk in the subject line.
Harlow Museum & Walled Gardens Muskham Road, Harlow
www harlowmuseum com 01279 446222
Open 9 30am to 3 30pm (last entry 3pm) every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday
Harlow Town FC:
FREE
A Story of History and Community Sat 25 Oct 2025 to Sat 7 Feb 2026
Harlow Town Football Club is one of the oldest in the country – even predating Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United Founded in 1879 by local medical student Thomas Day, the club has been at the heart of Harlow’s sporting life for nearly 150 years
Jingle Bells
Tuesday 2 to Saturday 20 December
Bells have a rich history and serve many purposes, such as sending messages and celebrating events In our festive exhibition we are showcasing a range of bells and their Harlow connection Drop in - all ages
Elf on the Shelf
Tuesday 2 to Saturday 20 December
Can you spot our mischievous elves hiding around the museum?
Each represent a figure from Harlow’s history Use the booklet to learn about them and discover the word they spell with their letters Drop in - all ages
Winter Wassail & Market
Saturday 13 December 12 noon to 4pm
We’re back bigger and better for a second year! Join Matipo Arts in Harlow Museum’s beautiful walled gardens for a winter festival with a twist.
Grab a bite to eat and browse the market stalls, enjoy original theatre and music across the afternoon, come together and celebrate the changing seasons with a Wassail!
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.
Harlow Playhouse
Playhouse Square, Harlow www.harlowplayhouse.co.uk 01279 431945
Sleeping Beauty
Friday 28 November 2025 to Sunday 4 January 2026
Let the magic unfold this Christmas with the enchanting pantomime ‘Sleeping Beauty”
In the kingdom of ‘Harlowtopia’ far, far away, a beautiful princess awaits her true love’s kiss to awaken her from a deep slumber. But beware! The wicked fairy Carabosse has cast a spell, and only the bravest heroes can break it
Will good triumph over evil and save the day? Get ready to boo, hiss, and cheer as our talented cast, including Harlow favourites Ben Parsely and Jimmy Burton-Iles, take you on a magical ride through panto land
With spectacular costumes and scenery, toe-tapping tunes, and plenty of surprises along the way, this is one pantomime you won’t want to miss!
The Great Christmas Snow Patrol Saturday 6 December to Wednesday 24 December 2025
Jack and Lily are dreaming of a white Christmas, but the skies are sunny and there’s no sign of snow anywhere. Is it possible to change the weather? Maybe they could build a rocket and fly up to the clouds Can this terrific twosome boldly go where no children have ever gone before ?
Harlow Playhouse is proud to present this year’s festive adventure for younger theatre-goers The Great Christmas Snow Patrol is a fun-filled, sing-along, interactive show for 2 to 6 year-olds, their families, pre-schools and, nurseries
After the performance, children will get the chance to meet Santa and receive a special Christmas gift.
You may have seen the news about the Simpler Recycling reforms recently announced by the Government Simpler Recycling is an initiative to implement a common set of recyclable materials across all homes and workplaces in England.
The aim is to end confusion over what can and cannot be recycled in different areas of the country, as the materials will all be the same. The result of this will be many areas introducing or expanding their collections to include the additional materials –and Harlow will be one of them! The changes mean that all councils in England will be collecting the same materials, which include: paper, card, plastics, glass and metal, as well as a separate weekly food recycling collection.
The Simpler Recycling reforms will be in place nationally from 1 April 2026, and we are already working hard to ensure all the changes needed in Harlow can be finalised and ready to go by that time.
For Harlow, this means that from 1 April 2026 you will be able to recycle food and drink cartons (such as TetraPak) as well as plastic pots, tubs and trays (such as meat trays, yoghurt pots and spread tubs), in your blue recycling bins or boxes in addition to all the materials we currently collect
The 1 April 2026 will also see a new separate collection of food recycling implemented at flat blocks
This will include deliveries of internal small caddies as well as an external communal container and will be collected weekly
We know this will be good news for many of you, but there is still much more work we have to do before we are able to deliver these changes to our recycling services, so please bear with us while we do this and get everything ready.
There will be more information available nearer the time on how this will affect your household, so please keep a look out for this in the New Year!
Our waste and recycling servicesyou can do this right now:
It is very important to dispose of batteries properly Putting them in your waste bins, bags or boxes may cause fires on the collection vehicles - this is something that happened in Harlow recently
We have a separate free collection for batteries to be recycled safely Put the batteries in a separate cardboard box or plastic bag, clearly labelled ‘batteries’ and leave it next to your wheelie bin or purple bags on your non-recycling collection day.
We will take them along with the batteries, so don’t use anything you want to keep
This service is not currently available at flats or communal properties
Do you have any items you want to get rid of that are too large to put in your bins? Can’t get them to the recycling centre? Then our bulky waste service is for you
As well as sofas and mattresses, all your old electricals can be collected for recycling through our bookable service Charges apply for some items
This is a simple way to dispose of your unwanted items – even the really small ones such as electric toothbrushes or shavers, as these shouldn’t be put into your waste bins, bags or boxes
Remember to put your containers on your property boundary (usually where the edge of the property meets the public area) by 7am on the morning of your collection day
Bins that have not been placed out on time at the correct point may not be collected and unfortunately, we won’t be able to come back for them until your next collection day.
Do you know we can collect clothes and textiles for free?
All your old textiles from T-shirts to bedsheets can be collected for recycling through our bookable service To book a collection visit our website and complete the bulky waste booking form. Select the items you wish to recycle and choose a collection date
Place your items out for collection on your boundary by 7am on your collection day –remember to place the textiles in a bag and clearly label it ‘textiles’ We will take the bag, so do not use anything you want to keep
To book your collection is easy, simply visit our website and complete the bulky waste booking form. Select the items you wish to recycle and choose a collection date/s and place your items out for collection on your boundary by 7am on your collection days. Get your recycling right
For more information on our waste and recycling services, visit: www.harlow.gov.uk/bins-and-recycling
