Harlow town centre has launched a public consultation ahead of plans for a £23.7 million revamp, starting with a total reconstruction of Market Square.
Harlow Council is encouraging residents to voice their opinions on the proposed transformation of the town's epicentre.
Unlike past investments, the redevelopment envisages a complete rebuild of the Square, intending to turn it into a new hub for leisure and hospitality.
As part of Harlow's Town Centre Masterplan, the new-look Market Square would feature fresh bars, restaurants, nightlife attractions, and other hospitality facilities, complementing new developments in the area.
The £23.7m Towns Fund from the government is backing this ambitious plan and the council has drawn up options depicting the potential new look for Market Square.
Incorporating several innovative features, the propositions include an interactive water feature, a usable green space, timber decking, and a natural playground.
Furthermore, the council plans to encourage regular use of this space for street trading, pop-up stalls, local markets, art shows, and other activities, bringing life back to the town centre.
Councillor Dan Swords, leader of Harlow Council, said: "We want the Market Square area to become a bustling hub of activity once again.
"These radical changes are going to completely transform what has unfortunately been a neglected area of the town centre; there are things in these plans that have not been seen in the area before and will once again make the north end of the town centre a welcoming, pleasant place to go.
"With plenty of play area equipment, green space in which to relax and socialise and even a water feature, it will be a place that families will love to visit.
"The addition of stalls, markets, art and events will also encourage people to come back and enjoy the area.
"Our plan is to make this area the hub for leisure, hospitality and night-life in the town centre.
"I encourage as many residents and business owners as possible to take part in the consultation; whilst I think these proposals are fantastic and further deliver on our priorities to rebuild and restore pride in our town, we need your views too before we progress the project further."
The plans for Market Square are part of a larger regeneration programme in Harlow, which also includes improvements to Terminus Street, Broad Walk, as well as the creation of a new Sustainable Transport Interchange and an Arts and Cultural Quarter in Playhouse Square.
Residents can express their opinions by filling out an online questionnaire available from March 4.
The consultation period will last until May.
Additionally, locals can engage face-to-face with council members at the Discover Harlow Hub in the Harvey Centre, typically open every Thursday, between 11am and 2pm.
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