Work has begun on Harlow Quarter, Strawberry Star’s build-to-rent (BTR) scheme which will initially deliver 163 new apartments.
Demolition has started on site, set to replace Little Walk shopping parade and the Gate House office building with the new apartment blocks.
The second phase of the Harlow Quarter scheme will see a further 578 BTR apartments in a series of buildings, including two 16-storey towers, plus retail spaces and a public realm.
The development was given planning permission by Harlow Council last month, subject to a Section 106 agreement.
The commencement of work on site was witnessed by guests including the deputy leader of Harlow Council and portfolio holder for regeneration, Councillor Dan Swords. They were joined by senior members of Strawberry Star, including development director Simon Taylor, head of construction delivery Caroline Heraghty and senior director of global sales, marketing & CRM Cauvery Nanaiah.
Simon Taylor, development director of Strawberry Star said: “It’s exciting to see the bulldozers this morning and know that we are moving forward with this project to bring new life back into the heart of Harlow town centre.
“This project is not just about new homes, although they are desperately needed; it’s also about creating an economic benefit for the whole community. During the construction phase, we anticipate around 80 new jobs will be created, and the benefits will continue long after the builders have left.
“We ultimately expect more than 1,000 people will make their home in Harlow Quarter, spending their wages in the local economy and supporting shops, businesses and leisure activities to the tune of £8.9 million a year.”
This first phase of Harlow Quarter was designed by HLM Architects, and the second phase was created by architect Flanagan Lawrence, with the design of the towers intended to represent the town’s 1950s design legacy.
Councillor Dan Swords, from Harlow Council, said: “Today is a hugely significant day for the future of Harlow. The regeneration of the town centre starts in earnest with Harlow Quarter, which not only signals massive investment into our town centre but will truly transform the area with high-quality apartments, architecture and facilities. I am delighted to be on-site to witness the first steps being taken in the future of Harlow’s town centre.”
Image source: Strawberry Star
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