Temporary shop extension at Land Opposite 10 And 15 Fieldfare Way, Harlow

What was proposed

The application sought a further 24 months for the temporary shop, until 8 December 2027, to maintain service while longer-term retail arrangements develop.

“The application proposes to extend the temporary permission granted under HW/FUL/23/00388 by a further 24 months until the 8 th December 2027.”

“The extension to the temporary permission is requested based on the need to ensure continuity of service while longer-term retail arrangements are considered and developed.”

Officer report

The site

The shop is south of Fieldfare Way and lies within a Green Finger, outside a conservation area and the setting of listed buildings.

“The application site relates to the Londis Convenience Store, located to the south of Nos.10- 15 Fieldfare Way. The building was granted a temporary two-year permission on the 8 th…”

“The unit is situated within a Green Finger, as shown the Harlow Local Development Plan (HLDP) Policies Map. It does not fall within a conservation area, or is within the setting of listed buildings.”

Officer report

Planning history

The temporary shop was granted permission in December 2023, later received changes to operating hours, and an earlier extension application was withdrawn.

“Application Number Proposal Status Decision Date HW/REMVAR/25/00394 Application for variation of condition 1 (Removal Time Limit 2 Years) of planning permission HW/FUL/23/00388 to extend the temporary permission by an additional 24 months after which time the building shall be removed and the land restored to its former condition on or before 8 December 2027 Application Withdrawn 24.10.2025 HW/REMVAR/24/00403 Application for variation to condition 2 Granted 19.12.2024 22”

“Erection of a temporary pop-up shop for a period of two years Granted Planning Permission 08.12.2023”

Officer report

What officers recommended

Officers recommended approval because the proposal accords with the local plan, supports a useful facility, and would require removal and restoration by December 2027.

“The premises provide a convenient, useful facility for residents and accords with the aim to reduce car use. Its continued use is therefore supported, and ECC Highways raise no objections.”

“The building hereby permitted shall be removed and the land restored to its former condition on or before 8 December 2027. REASON: In the interests of visual amenity, and to comply with policies PL1, PL5 and WE2 of the Harlow Local Development Plan, December 2020. 26”

Officer report

What people said

There were 534 supporting representations and 14 objections, covering community benefits alongside concerns about appearance, traffic, access, waste and the temporary arrangement.

“Unsightly and out of place; eyesore; unpleasant environment for residents • Promised bigger facility which has not been delivered, despite the Community Centre opening up • Will the temporary store remain in perpetuity? Demonstrates a lack of commitment from developers • Existing store has probably resulted in a lack of interest • Additional traffic and on-street parking to the detriment of residents; parking provision inadequate for staff and customers; no traffic…”

“Accessibility issues for wheelchair users or those with limited mobility • Poor maintenance and upkeep – there are often rubbish, empty crates, and general clutter left outside the shop; accumulation of packaging and commercial waste; potential issues with vermin, odour, or litter; inadequate long-term waste management strategies due to the "temporary" nature of the approval.”

Officer report

Who spoke

Three supporters addressed the committee.

The committee decision

The committee granted planning permission subject to the conditions recommended for the application.

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

Minutes