AS we reported, Harlow is set to become a national powerhouse of health innovation and economic growth as the Government – after years of delay – confirms that the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) will relocate its new headquarters to the town.

The move has been hailed by Councillor Dan Swords, Leader of Harlow Council, and Darren Rodwell, Chair of the Harlow Growth Board, as a historic moment for Harlow’s transformation – and one of the biggest investments in the town’s modern history.

What this means for Harlow:

• 2,750 high-quality jobs created at the UKHSA campus
• £80 million a year injected into the local economy
• 1,600 new jobs to support construction of the site
• A world-class science and health campus at the heart of the town
• An anchor for skills, STEM education, and innovation in Harlow creating transformational opportunities for Harlow’s young people
• A permanent home in the UK Innovation Corridor, unlocking national and regional growth

This announcement secures a cornerstone project of Building Harlow’s Future and establishes the town as a national hub for public health, science, and opportunity.

Commenting on the announcement, the Leader of the Council, Cllr Dan Swords said:

“This is a moment of huge significance – not just for Harlow today, but for its future for generations to come as our fierce lobbying of the Government has paid off.

“With deep roots in pharmaceutical innovation, Harlow has long been a place of ingenuity, innovation, and talent. The confirmation that the multi-billion-pound UKHSA headquarters is relocating to Harlow is one of the biggest moments in our town’s modern history. It is a clear vote of confidence in Harlow – in our people, our potential, and our place at the heart of the UK Innovation Corridor. It is also the most powerful signal yet that the transformation of Harlow is real and a profound statement about our potential to lead in science, health, and economic renewal.

“This single decision brings with it thousands of high-quality jobs, millions in investment, purpose-driven opportunities for our young people, and , anchor world-leading research, and place Harlow at the heart of global efforts to tackle tomorrow’s health challenges. But more than that, it redefines what’s possible for Harlow – putting us at the forefront of health innovation not just nationally, but globally. 

“Our plan to Build Harlow’s Future has always been about delivering real results that change local people’s lives. This announcement is the embodiment of that vision – showing that with ambition, leadership and relentless focus, we can transform this iconic New Town into one of the most dynamic and prosperous places in the country. And that our people, with the right backing, can shape the future of public health and innovation on a national stage.

“We are not managing decline – we are leading a renaissance by building Harlow’s future. This confirmation is another piece of that puzzle as we stay true to our vision.

“I want to thank all our partners and local leaders who stood shoulder to shoulder to make the case for Harlow. Now, we get to work – because the best is yet to come.”

The Chair of the Harlow Growth Board, Darren Rodwell, added:

“This is more than a good news story, it’s a moment of transformation for Harlow, and a model for how investment in people, purpose, and place can truly deliver inclusive growth.

“Harlow has a proud legacy in pharmaceuticals and innovation and today, we build on that legacy with one of the most significant public health investments in a generation. The arrival of UKHSA will spark a wave of opportunity: inspiring careers in science, new pathways for local talent, and renewed confidence in Harlow as a town of ambition, excellence, and global relevance.

“For me, this is real change rooted in Harlow’s history and local identity, shaped with communities, and designed to last. Whether you’re a young person growing up in Harlow today or a global partner looking to invest in tomorrow’s science, this campus is a beacon of what’s possible when vision meets action.”