London Borough of Harrow

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Harrow1961

London Borough of Harrow is a London borough located in the northwest part of Greater London, England. It was established on 1 April 1965 under the London Government Act 1963, merging the former area of Harrow on the Hill Urban District, Hendon Rural District, and Wealdstone Urban District. Harrow is known for its diverse population, excellent educational institutions, including the famous Harrow School, and its rich cultural heritage. The borough covers an area of 50.47 square kilometers and is bordered by Hertfordshire to the north, Hillingdon to the west, Ealing to the south, and Barnet to the east.

History

The history of Harrow dates back to ancient times, with evidence of Roman occupation in the area. The name "Harrow" is believed to have originated from the Old English word "hearg," meaning "(heathen) temple," which refers to a pre-Christian place of worship that was located in the area. Over the centuries, Harrow evolved from a small rural village into a thriving suburban borough of London. The opening of the Metropolitan Railway in the 19th century played a significant role in this transformation, facilitating easier access to central London and encouraging residential development.

Geography

Harrow's geography is characterized by its hilly terrain, with Harrow on the Hill being a notable landmark offering panoramic views of London. The borough is predominantly suburban, with several parks and open spaces, including Harrow Weald and Stanmore Country Park, providing recreational areas for residents and visitors.

Demographics

As of the latest census, the London Borough of Harrow has a diverse population, with a significant proportion of residents of South Asian descent. This multicultural aspect of Harrow is reflected in the variety of religious buildings, shops, and restaurants found throughout the borough.

Education

Harrow is renowned for its high standard of education, with numerous state and independent schools, as well as further education institutions. Harrow School, one of the oldest and most prestigious public schools in the UK, is located in the borough. The borough also hosts campuses of the University of Westminster and Harrow College, offering a range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

Economy

The economy of Harrow is supported by a mix of retail, business services, and light manufacturing. The main shopping area is located in Harrow town center, with St Ann's and St George's shopping centers being the primary retail destinations. Harrow is also home to a number of business parks and industrial estates, providing employment opportunities in various sectors.

Transport

Harrow is well served by public transport, with several London Underground and National Rail stations within the borough, including Harrow-on-the-Hill, Harrow & Wealdstone, and Stanmore. These provide convenient links to central London and other parts of the UK. The borough also has an extensive bus network, facilitating local and regional travel.

Culture and Community

The London Borough of Harrow boasts a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous arts and community centers, theaters, and galleries. The annual Harrow Festival and the Harrow Fireworks Display are among the key cultural events that attract visitors from across London. The borough also supports a range of community initiatives aimed at promoting social cohesion and cultural diversity.

Governance

Harrow is governed by the Harrow London Borough Council, which is responsible for local services such as education, housing, and waste management. The council is elected every four years, with the political composition varying over time.