HARLOW Council has slapped an enforcement notice on a former pub in Potter Street after concerns that it was being used as an unauthorised house of multiple occupation.

The White Horse pub was sold in 2023. YH reported that it was set to be transformed into an Islamic Centre to replace the one in Northbrooks.

However, things went a bit quiet but not according to local residents, who wondered if it was being used as some form of house of multiple occupation.

Following an investigation by Harlow Council, they have issued the following statement.

A Harlow Council spokesperson said: “In relation to the planning enforcement, the owners were advised that they are required to apply for a change of use which they have. However, there is currently a Housing Act Prohibition Order on the property which came into force on 28 May.

“This was served by our Environmental Health team and prevents the use of the property for sleeping and residential living accommodation.

The notice is due to several serious hazards including concerns around fire safety, insulation, damp and mould, asbestos and food safety. The council has set out the measures and improvements which need to be taken before it would consider withdrawing the order.”

A planning application has been submitted which, due to the number of objections, may go before the Harlow Council planning committee, some time this year.