Harlow Council Enhances Protection for Historic Churchgate Street

Hey, guess what’s happening on Churchgate Street? People there will soon need permission for home updates. These updates didn’t need approval before. It’s all part of a plan to keep the street’s vibe nice. The Harlow council agreed to this after talking to locals.

Churchgate Street is special. It’s old and has cool buildings. Some buildings are super old. The area became a conservation zone way back in 1969 and was updated in 1984, too.

The area now includes Sheering Drive and St Mary’s Church’s yard. The council will use something called an Article 4 Direction for Churchgate Street itself.

This means you’ll need permission for some updates like new siding. Changing windows or adding a porch will also need a permit. It will help keep the historic look of the street.

A councilor, Alastair Gunn, spoke about the plan. He said they are protecting the street’s character because many buildings are pretty old. He added that the council wants to improve neighborhoods.

The council starts a consultation soon, from March 6 to April 17. You can see the plans on the council website. Also, you can visit the Civic Centre reception and check at the Central and Old Harlow libraries too.

Two meetings are planned for Churchgate residents. They are at St Mary’s Church on March 20 and 25. Residents will receive a letter about all of this.

If all goes well, changes might happen in a year. The council needs to approve it all again, though, and will also adopt a plan and some guidance documents.