COUNCILLOR Dan Swords, Leader of Harlow Council, has announced the appointment of renowned regeneration and inclusive growth leader, Darren Rodwell, as the new Chair of the Harlow Growth Board.

The Harlow Growth Board brings together a powerful alliance of public and private sector leaders — united by a shared mission to unlock the full potential of Harlow – one of Britain’s most iconic New Towns. With Harlow set to become the fastest-growing town in the UK – poised for a 50% population increase over the next decade making it bigger than Cambridge – the Board’s focus is clear: to attract ambitious private sector investment that will support this unprecedented transformation.

At the heart of this momentum is a bold vision from the council. As Harlow’s Leader has declared, this is not a time for passive administration or cautious half-measures.

“We are here to lead the glorious rebirth of one of Britain’s great towns” he said last week when setting out the Building Harlow’s Future plan.

The town is already making huge progress with hundreds of millions of pounds of investment secured from both the Government and private sector, the full rebuilding of the town centre underway, huge housing growth and much more besides.

Rodwell, the former Leader of Barking and Dagenham, brings over a decade of visionary leadership, having transformed Barking and Dagenham through an ambitious, inclusive growth agenda. His appointment marks a major milestone in Harlow’s journey to becoming one of the most dynamic and investable towns in the UK.

Darren Rodwell succeeds John Keddie, whose leadership helped lay the groundwork for Harlow’s growth ambitions. The council extends its deep appreciation to John for his invaluable contribution as the inaugural Chair which has supported the work to refocus the board and put it on a footing to secure investment.

Councillor Dan Swords, said:

“Appointing Darren Rodwell is a bold move that signals our unwavering ambition to deliver real, long-term inclusive growth in Harlow. Darren’s record in driving regeneration, forging impactful partnerships, and championing inclusive development is second to none.

“We are entering a new chapter – one where we will fully harness the power of local government, attract private sector investment at scale, and deliver growth that benefits every part of our community. Darren’s leadership will be instrumental in making that vision a reality.”

Darren Rodwell, said:

“It’s an honour to take on this role at such a pivotal moment in Harlow’s development. I’ve spent my career demonstrating that inclusive, community-led growth is not only possible – it’s essential.

Harlow has extraordinary potential and under Dan’s leadership, that potential is being realised. With the right partnerships and shared determination, we can create a town that thrives – economically, socially, and environmentally. I look forward to working with the Board, Council and private sector to deliver lasting impact for Harlow.”

Jackie Sadek, Independent Chair of the UK Innovation Corridor, said:

“It is truly energising to be reunited with our esteemed colleague and friend, Darren Rodwell. His legacy of delivering inclusive, transformative growth in Barking and Dagenham – a cornerstone of the Innovation Corridor – speaks volumes about his vision and leadership.

“Now, as he joins the inspiring Dan Swords to lead the growth of Harlow – right at the beating heart of the UK Innovation Corridor – we are filled with confidence that his appointment will be a catalyst for extraordinary progress.

“Darren brings not only experience and drive, but a deep belief in building places that work for everyone. We are proud to welcome him to support Dan Swords, and we stand ready to support them every step of the way. Together, we will unlock Harlow’s full potential and shape a future of inclusive prosperity for the entire Corridor.”