The work is part of a sustainable transport corridor linked to the Harlow & Gilston Garden Town development.
Running from a redesigned junction at Burnt Mill roundabout along Fifth Avenue-Zelenskyy Avenue to the town centre, the corridor will provide new bus lanes in both directions alongside walking and cycling links, public realm, trees, signage and lighting.
Having begun construction in February 2024, most of the work will be completed by the end of this year, with the infrastructure supporting the garden town’s commitment to giving residents and visitors more options to travel locally on bike, bus and foot.
Fully funded as part of a Housing Investment Grant from Homes England via Hertfordshire County Council, this phase of the sustainable corridor network is one of a number of infrastructure projects being delivered in advance of new homes within the garden town, which are planned for construction in the coming years.
Councillor Alastair Gunn, Harlow Council’s portfolio holder for planning and the garden town, said: “People who travel around Harlow by bus or enjoy cycling and walking regularly are going to see a massive improvement and the approach into the town centre is going to be a lot better.
“Wider cycle lanes and better lighting on the sustainable transport corridor will make it a much better travelling experience for people, and places Harlow as a welcoming town that’s attractive to visit and live in.
“We obviously have the regeneration of the town centre taking place as well so, in the very near future, residents will see that Harlow has not only transformed but is viewed as a go-to-destination for the region.
“That’s the aim and this infrastructure helps us deliver that aspiration.”
This section of the sustainable transport corridor infrastructure is delivered by Essex County Council. Its deputy leader and cabinet member for communities and economic growth, Councillor Louise McKinlay, says the works are part of much wider investment into Harlow and the wider garden town.
Councillor McKinlay said: “Along with partners, we have identified a £1.3 billion infrastructure investment across the Harlow & Gilston area and these works, from the town centre to the Burnt Mill roundabout, will give people more choice as to how they want to travel locally, whether that is by bus, cycling or walking.
“The town is really going places and its location between London and Cambridge makes it highly investable.
“We know there has been some disruption during these works and we thank everyone for their patience. But having the right infrastructure in place improves connectivity and encourages economic growth, providing long-term benefits for Harlow.”
Councillor Paul Zukowskyj, executive member for transport, growth and environment at Hertfordshire County Council, said: “This is exactly the kind of forward-thinking infrastructure we need to see as our region grows.
“By working together across county boundaries, we’re helping to create safer, greener and more sustainable ways for people to travel.
“These improvements will make it easier for residents to choose walking, cycling and public transport, supporting cleaner air, healthier lives and vibrant communities across Harlow and the wider garden town area.”
