Visitors to the Harvey Centre got more than they bargained for on Friday 27 February with members of Harlow’s Gateway Partnership Board there to update them on the progress of the £50m regeneration project.

Bill Rammell MP and Councillors Andrew Johnson, Eddie Johnson and Emmanuel Doku were all helping shoppers to understand more about the Gateway Project and what’s in it for them. Backed by a special exhibition stand and new film about the scheme, Board members were explaining the Project’s exciting progress, including the impressive new ‘Leisurezone’ sports & leisure complex as well as the housing development at Fifth Avenue. The film tells the story of what the Gateway Project has already provided and what it is delivering for Harlow.

A spokesperson for the Harlow Gateway Project said: “The Gateway Project is about providing new opportunities for everyone in Harlow. Whether it’s sports and leisure facilities or new homes to rent or buy, the Project has lots of important ingredients which are helping to create a stronger, more successful Harlow. Today is about bringing this all together - helping to explain the ongoing progress of the Project and what it has to offer local people. The Gateway Project represents serious investment and regeneration for Harlow and we want everyone to experience the benefits it brings.”

So far, the Gateway Project has delivered a new community football stadium at Barrows Farm, an athletics track and improved facilities at Mark Hall School, major investment into pitch regeneration across the town, and the first wave of new homes at Fifth Avenue.

Still to come is ‘Leisurezone’, the new state-of-the-art £25m sports centre which is rapidly taking shape on a site next to Harlow College. The new complex will house outstanding facilities including sports halls, swimming pools and a health & fitness suite as well as being home to ‘Science Alive’ a Harlow-based organisation bringing hands-on science and technology learning opportunities for children and adults.