Land & planning

Corporate responsibility

We listen and learn 

Harrow Estates understands that its developments can significantly affect the communities in which it works, so the company takes seriously its moral obligation to listen to local views and deliver results that local people want. By understanding and appreciating their needs in this way, Harrow Estates can be sure that its work results in maximum benefit to the community, whilst causing the least disruption or inconvenience.

To achieve the best possible results when working on community developments (whether commercial, residential or mixed use), Harrow Estates undertakes a process of public consultation, talking to local stakeholders so as to assess the likely impact of any remediation work - and, wherever possible, putting plans in place to reduce the impact of work undertaken by the company.

Harrow Estates consults once again when planning redevelopment, so as to ensure that the intended new use for the land is beneficial for the local community. Dialogue continues throughout the construction process, so as to protect the health and safety of local communities that may be affected by the company’s work.

Community involvement - Becoming part of the community

True understanding of a community takes far more than merely consultation. It also involves awareness of the attitudes, motivations and needs of all the stakeholders - from residents groups to local councils, from government agencies to special interest groups.

An area of land can affect a large number of people on many different levels - and Harrow Estates considers all interested parties, from local history societies to environmental groups, from rights-of-way activists to those concerned with the safety of children.

By forming strong relationships founded on mutual respect, Harrow Estates relates to the community and works within it, creating developments that enhance the lives of local people whilst respecting the rights and interests of all concerned.
 

Environmental policy - Protecting the environment  

Harrow Estates is aware that the final results of its remediation and regeneration projects will improve the environment for all concerned, creating sustainable and desirable communities throughout the UK. Nevertheless, the company also appreciates that it needs to be environmentally aware and must minimise the impact of its activities whilst it undertakes these projects.

Harrow Estates’ environmental policies are given the highest priority throughout the redevelopment process, always complying with (and often exceeding) current legislation. What’s more, the company insists on the same high standards from all the partners with whom it works, monitoring their performance as well as that of Harrow Estates, on a regular basis. For example, when working on site, Harrow Estates strives to reduce the use of new raw materials wherever possible, recycling aggregates and re-using soils to minimise the waste sent to land-fill.

Partners’ Code of Conduct - Maintaining a higher standard 

Whilst demanding the very highest standards from its own teams, Harrow Estates expects nothing less from its working partners. Harrow Estates’ strict code of conduct lays down a comprehensive portfolio of responsibilities to which all parties must comply, thus conforming to the high standards to which the company works.

This process commences long before a contractor is appointed. All potential partners are thoroughly assessed for their ability, qualifications and relevant experience, so as to ensure their approach is compatible with that of Harrow Estates. Their Health & Safety record is also scrutinised to ensure that their working practices meet Harrow Estates’ high standards.

Harrow Estates values its reputation and has worked hard to earn its place in the community. The company will only engage with partners who respect and protect the Harrow Estates name.

Brownfield remediation - Regenerating precious resources 

Land is forever in short supply within a landmass as small as the UK. And as demand for new homes, new businesses and new industries grows in tandem with the nation’s rising population and lifestyle expectations, there is also increasing pressure to comply with ever more complex and comprehensive planning regulations.

The remediation of brownfield sites is becoming increasingly important if the UK is to avoid using up its limited commodities of precious countryside and greenfield sites. Clearing and cleaning former factories, railway yards, warehouses and other sites is thus crucial for the future of national infrastructure and the environment.

Harrow Estates is acutely aware of its responsibility to deliver the maximum amount of this land back into the construction cycle if the company is to protect this country’s fragile and unique heritage. That’s why any land will be considered for unconditional purchase, regardless of its history - because all land can, and should, play a vital role in the future of this nation and its diverse communities.
 

Health and safety -Taking due care 

Complex, contaminated and technically challenging sites demand equally complex health and safety considerations - not only for those working on site, but also for neighbours and those living in the local community.

Harrow Estates has extensive experience in dealing with such challenges, so the company will always abide by the highest standards of planning and protection, whether dealing with chemical contaminants or asbestos, heavy metals or oil sludge.

Harrow Estates is also acutely aware of the impact of other Health & Safety issues - including dust, noise and odours; and the company will endeavour to employ methods that reduce or eliminate these factors for workers and local residents alike.