Harrow has been recognised for its exceptional quality of life in recent results published by the London Vitality Index.
The Index evaluates various factors such as pleasantness, productivity, greenery, and happiness across the city, Harrow secured an impressive second place.
Notably, Harrow also emerged as the top performer in the Health and Environment category, surpassing all 32 boroughs in London.
The assessment encompassed crucial metrics including life satisfaction, recycling rates, CO2 emissions, availability of green spaces, and crime levels. The borough’s remarkable achievements in these areas contributed to its high ranking and the praise it received from residents and local officials.
Commenting on Harrow’s commendable standing, Cllr Paul Osborn, the leader of Harrow Council, acknowledged the independent survey’s recognition. In a message posted in the MyHarrow newsletter, Cllr Osborn remarked, “It was good to see this recognised by an independent survey published this week.”
Cllr Osborn went on to highlight the significant efforts invested in enhancing local services. He shared, “We’ve been working hard to improve local services. There is much still to do, but so far we’ve introduced one hour’s free parking, now used more than 1.5 million times; free bulky waste collections; and new measures to catch fly-tippers, with the number of fines issued increasing by more than 700% compared with the previous year.”
Furthermore, Cllr Osborn emphasised several accomplishments aimed at enhancing the residents’ experience. “We’ve opened three new reception areas in the town centre, as an important step towards improving customer experience for Harrow residents.
”We’re fixing our roads and pavements after a tough winter, and we’re getting tough with those that flout planning laws, even going so far as to pull down unauthorised structures,” he explained.
The council leader also addressed the pressing issue of the global cost-of-living crisis and how Harrow has responded to protect vulnerable residents.
Cllr Osborn stated, “Our response to the global cost-of-living crisis has also been an important element. We’ve worked hard to protect the most vulnerable and used Government support creatively to ensure no one is left behind.”
He further highlighted the extension of free school meals support, assuring eligible families that they will continue to receive assistance with the cost of food during school holidays until at least spring next year.
He concluded, “We know these are the kinds of things that matter most to Harrow’s residents, and our plans for the year ahead are no less ambitious – there’s still a lot to do.”
