Welcome signs at General Harlow Record, Harlow

“The application seeks planning permission for the installation of new “Welcome to Harlow” signs at various entrance points to the town, as listed under the ‘Application Site and Surroundings’ section of this report. Forming part of the “Building Harlow’s Future” project, the signage intends to create a statement entrance that celebrates Harlow’s heritage in a modern way.”

“The proposed signage is made up of two component parts. The advertisement board, which includes the council’s crest, ‘Welcome to Harlow New Town’ wording and visual art depicting the town’s key landmarks, is to be assessed under the associated application reference HW/ADV/26/00307. The application for advertisement consent is not for consideration by committee as it does not fall as a relevant application under the Council’s Scheme of Delegation.”

“The proposed sites relate to grass verges located at the various entrance points to Harlow, which are listed in detail below:”

“Location 1: South of Eastwick Road Location 2: Land at Gilston Park Estate Burnt Mill Lane Location 3: Land on the west side of Cambridge Road Location 4: Land on the south-east side of Gilden Way Location 5: Land on the North and South sides of Matching Road Location 6: Land lying on the north west side and south east side of Hobbs Cross Road Location 7: Land at M11 Harlow Common Location 9: Land opposite Newhouse, Latton Common, A414 Location 12: Land East of Brookside…”

“The overall ‘Welcome to Harlow’ signage (the structure and the advert) would be well- designed, durable and thoughtfully placed, serving as a powerful, cost-effective marketing tool showcasing the town’s unique history, culture, character and identity. It would not appear stark, out of place, or create unnecessary visual clutter.”

“The application has been considered in consultation with the council’s tree officer, who advises excavation for the signage across all locations would be minor in scale and does not raise arboricultural concern. It is considered that the submitted Arboricultural Method Statement is sufficient in providing an appropriate and proportionate method for managing potential impacts where works are undertaken close to retained trees.”

“Given the limited nature of the excavations, the submitted Arboricultural Method Statement is considered to provide an appropriate and proportionate method for managing potential impacts where works are undertaken close to retained trees.”

“Therefore, the proposed development can be considered for consent, having satisfied arboricultural matters sufficiently at this stage of the planning process. Subject to the works being carried out in accordance with the submitted methodology.”

“One representation was received objecting to the proposal. Their comments can be summarised as follows:”

“- Why is the signage being moved? How can residents of Moor Hall Lane North belong to EFDC but also be in Harlow? How can the signage be part of ‘Harlow New Town’, the sign states ‘Est 1947’?”

“The Committee received a report on application HW/FUL/26/00306 for the installation of "Welcome to Harlow" signage across the entrance points to the town.”

“RESOLVED that planning permission be GRANTED subject to the conditions in the Officer’s report.”

“The development hereby permitted shall be begun before the expiration of three years from the date of this permission. REASON: In order to comply with Section 91(1) of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 as amended by Section 51 of the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004.”

“The proposed development shall be completed in full accordance with the submitted arboricultural details of the consented submission package. Specifically, this includes the Arboricultural Method Statement (Proposed Installation of Signposts) In the Harlow district by Josh Alder on behalf Of HTS LTD, dated 26/02/2026.”