ON Wednesday 28 September 2016, the Planning Inspector granted permission for development on the YWCA Hostel site on Fourth Avenue which includes The Square music venue. This followed an appeal by South Anglia Housing against Harlow Council’s Development Management Committee’s decision on 13 January 2016 to refuse planning permission.

The Planning Inspector has made the following decision:

The appeal is allowed and planning permission is granted for demolition of all existing buildings and construction of 69 new residential dwellings, including flats and houses, ranging from 3 to 13 storeys, with associated car parking and landscaping at YWCA Hostel, Fourth Avenue, Harlow, Essex, CM20 1DN.

A copy of the full Planning Inspectorate Appeal Decision can be viewed at www.harlow.gov.uk/sites/harlow/files/documents/files/Planning%20Directorate%203146636%20Appeal%20Decision.pdf

Councillor Danny Purton, Portfolio Holder for Environment, said: “We are disappointed by the Planning Inspector’s decision to grant planning permission to South Anglia Housing.

“The Development Management Committee turned down the planning application in January for good reasons and not just because of the lack of affordable housing and parking but also because it would result in the loss of the popular Square music venue. We fought hard to maintain that position and contest the appeal at the Planning Inspector’s hearing in August. We will now take time to review the full appeal decision before deciding on what to do next. The decision could be challenged in the High Court but this is likely to be costly for Council Taxpayers and there are no guarantees that the decision would be quashed.

“We understand the concerns the Inspector’s decision is having on those that love and support The Square and we will continue to support their campaign for the future of this much important youth venue.”