With coronavirus infection rates down massively across the town, Harlow residents can start to dream about what the summer might hold for them.

Boris Johnson’s national roadmap has imprinted dates such as April 12 – haircuts and a pint in a pub garden – and June 21 – the return of the clubs – on the national psyche.

And now Harlow Council has published its own roadmap, revealing when council services will return.

Already, the council has reopened its tennis courts, multi-use games areas, basketball courts, the outdoor gym and skate park in the Town Park as part of ‘Step 1’ of the programme.

Step 2, dated for no earlier than April 12 will see Parndon Wood Nature Reserve reopen along with the Playhouse theatre, for private group activities, while Pets’ Corner will reopen for bookings.

The second step of the roadmap will also see the resumption of council inspections of houses in multiple occupation.

Dirty restaurants will also have to get their act together, as food hygiene inspections restart.

Council housing officers will also resume supported housing doorstep visits and internal works programmes.

All the key dates as Harlow emerges from Covid lockdown. Photo: Harlow Council

All the key dates as Harlow emerges from Covid lockdown. Photo: Harlow Council

The news comes as Harlow’s coronavirus infection rates fell yet again and are now amongst some of the lowest in the country.

In the seven days to April 2 – the latest available accurate data – there 13 new infections recorded in the town, down from 35 the week prior.

The town’s infection rate – expressed as the number of new cases per 100,000 people – is now just 14.9.

Step 3, planned for May 17 at the earliest, will mark the much awaited reopening of Harlow Museum to the public and the reopening of Harlow Playhouse Café and Bar as shows restart at the theatre.

Reception services will also recommence at the Latton Bush Centre and the Civic Centre.

The last step of the roadmap, step four, set for June 21 at the earliest, will see the town’s iconic paddling pools and splash park reopen for the summer holidays.

The council will also begin planning for November’s Bonfire and fireworks night event and further fun for the Playhouse’s 50th birthday events in the same month.