SINCE it was launched in October 2024, we have heard nothing from Safe To Go Stow.

We do know that Harlow Council have committed to £100,000 into the project but who goes in there and when seems to be a closely guarded secret.

As the police spend a lot of time in there, and as all PCSOs in Harlow and beyond may be losing their jobs, we asked Harlow Council, if Safe To Go Stow would remain open?

Cllr Joel Charles, Harlow Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Protection, has confirmed that the ‘Safe to go Stow’ project will continue, despite the current debate about police funding challenges in Essex:

“The community safety hub in The Stow will remain open to support efforts to tackle crime and help build a stronger sense of community in the local area. Significant council funding has been set aside for the project because it is a priority. The council also owns the shop unit where the hub is based, so there is no risk of closure at this time.

“I joined a meeting last week at the hub with residents, the NHS engagement lead for West Essex, a member of the council’s community safety team and one of the local police officers supporting the project to discuss how to take forward some of the most urgent priorities. Funding has now been released for several community priorities, including additional cleaning work in and around the shopping precinct, a plan to improve CCTV coverage and the installation of a better surface at the football cage located next to the nearby play area on Minchen Road.

“More community activities are going to be added to the hub’s forward diary. The aim has always been for the hub to be a place for residents to access the best possible support. There is no complacency about the amount of work required to make the project a success.

“The commitment to restore pride in The Stow and dedicate resources to achieve that ambition has not changed.”