Letter to the Editor

On Safe to go Stow

The opening of a joint venture between Harlow Council, the police and other agencies has met with a lot of criticism since it’s opening last month.

Since it’s inception in 2018 the Harlow Alliance Party (HAP) has, as one of its key policy areas, sought the re-opening of local offices in each neighbourhood where council services can be accessed.

Such offices existed from 1953 until 2003, where, as part of the development of neighbourhoods, readily accessible shops, doctors, dentists and community services were provided., Some members of HAP doubted that such services were still required but a survey of residents using the Bush Fair and Stow shopping centres by HAP quickly showed that most residents questioned would like to see services brought back.

The main reason given was that they preferred the convenience of face to face contact locally rather than the pitfalls of using social media and the like. At the time of its closure, the Stow Neighbourhood office still saw an average of 500 visitors a day many of them going on to use the local shops thus increasing footfall at the Stow..

HAP are happy to give credit where credit is due and applaud the Conservative administration in agreeing to be part of the partnership which saw the opening of Safe to Go Stow. It is early days, but it is already clear that this resource will form an important part in rebuilding a sense of community. Voluntary groups, agencies, the police and Harlow Council are making use of the building, and it must be hoped that many more will join them including for instance Harlow Councillors holding their Ward surgeries. No doubt opening hours will be extended so that more groups and agencies can use this local resourse.

There may be short term pain (spending money) but HAP believe there will be a long-term gain.