The Government has announced it will be investing £2.7 million into Harlow to support businesses, jobs, apprenticeships and careers guidance.

The government rejected the town’s Levelling Up Fund application with spending going towards an arts and cultural plaza in Playhouse Quarter and a leisure-focused events space in Stone Cross Square last week.

The new £2.7 million boost was announced today (November 4) with spending going towards supporting Harlow’s economy.

The package includes £1.5 million to improve skills, careers guidance and help young people find jobs and apprenticeship opportunities.

Nearly £500,000 to support local businesses with a new procurement portal so that they can access better supply chains.

A £700,000 County Council scheme to retrofit properties and make them more energy efficient.

The money comes as part of the UK Community Renewal Fund which Harlow Council bid for in November last year.

The announcement has been welcomed by both the Tory Councillor, Dan Swords, who led the bid, and Harlow’s MP, who lobbied the Government in Parliament to approve the bid.

Cabinet Member for Regeneration at Harlow Council, Cllr Dan Swords, said: “Today is a fantastic day for Harlow's businesses and young people. "I passionately believe that investing in careers, skills, apprenticeships and our local businesses is one of the single most important investments that we can make for the future of our town.

"Building back better is not about these impressive figures, but about improving the life chances for our residents and opening high-quality job and apprenticeship opportunities across Harlow and that is what we are delivering."

Mr Halfon added: "Championing apprenticeships and skills has always been my passion in politics.

“The investment into Harlow announced today will help to transform our local economy with a huge boost for apprenticeships, jobs and local businesses.”