Many Harlow residents have written to me in recent weeks, with concerns about the potential housing development in Gilden Way.
I have been very active on this, meeting with numerous residents, and also taking local people to meet with the developers just before Christmas last year.

As local MP I have no powers over planning applications.

However, I have put out a statement on my views, and I will always represent local people.

STATEMENT:

Like many residents of Old Harlow (I myself live in Newhall) I have concerns about over development and preserving the original design principles of Harlow - like the green wedges that make our town unique.

I have made these feelings clear to the Council and also to the developers.

Just before Christmas, I took a group of residents including Colleen Morrison from CouncilWatch to express these concerns to the land-owners and developers, among others- including questions about transport infrastructure and pressure on local schools.

As local MP I will always represent the views of people in Old Harlow and other residents, to make sure that their voices are heard.

For over 10 years I have campaigned to protect the green spaces in Harlow, and for local people to have a genuine say in decision-making. This has not changed. The Government's Localism Bill will introduce new powers for residents along these lines, and is currently progressing through Parliament.

Clearly the developers want to develop the land, but ultimately this will be a decision for the planning committee at Harlow Council. I will continue to raise residents concerns with them, as I have done for several months. I am more than happy to meet with residents to discuss this, if they have further questions.

by Robert Halfon - www.roberthalfon.blogspot.com