Harlow: New M11 Junction A Step Closer

Plans for a new junction on the M11 at Harlow have moved a step closer.

Essex County Council and the Harlow Gateway Transport Board have both now backed the proposal, following a £500,000 feasibility study. 

It means the Council will have the project as its number one priority when it comes to bidding for money for roads from the Government. 

The town's MP, Robert Halfon, is one of those behind the project and says it would create an additional 3,000 jobs, while also encouraging more businesses to come to the town because of the improved access to London. 

Mr Halfon also says it would also relieve congestion in the town: "Most of the business is right at the other end of the town (from the current junction) so all the lorries have to drive through. 

"It creates huge traffic, if there's one problem on the M11 the whole of Harlow becomes gridlocked". 

He added: "There is fantastic news today as our highways authority Essex County Council has concluded a £500,000 study and given our campaign the green light. 

"Once the junction is built, it will mean 3,000 extra jobs in Harlow's Enterprise Zone, smoother traffic flows, and a stronger case for regeneration in our town-centre. 

"I believe Harlow should be a magnet for investment and I will be urging the Government to put us at the top of the list for new transport infrastructure. A new junction will make a huge difference, help with traffic in general and make Harlow a better place to live." 

Essex County Councillor Derrick Louis, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transportation, said: "I've worked closely with Robert Halfon MP on this, and he has done a huge amount of work, campaigning on this for many years. 

"I am delighted that the scheme for a new junction in Harlow has been endorsed by the Harlow Stansted Gateway Transport Board. "This scheme will support the delivery of thousands of new jobs for the Harlow area and bring much needed improvements to the road network in and around Harlow, including the new Enterprise Zone. 

"I hope that partners both locally and nationally will support the progression of this scheme." 

A public consultation will now be held in the spring.