Good morning, Hertstown! 🌞

It’s 18th February, and the sun is shining—crisp, bright, and full of promise! ❄️☀️ We’re thrilled to have you with us this morning for your go-to community catch-up. Hertstown is more than a newsletter—it’s your local lifeline, built by residents, for residents. From breaking news and local events to sports highlights and a splash of fun, we’re here to keep you in the know—quick, easy, and straight from our community to your inbox.

Today’s edition is packed with updates straight from the corridors of power! We’re diving into how Hertfordshire’s district councils are responding to the call for local government reforms, what’s happening with election preparations, and sharing key updates from your neighboring districts.

📣 And a huge shoutout to our new subscribers—welcome to the Hertstown family! We’re so glad you’re here. Got a story tip or an idea? We’d love to hear from you—because Hertstown is your space, your voice, and your community.

Let’s make today a great one—Hertstown style! 🚀💙

💌 Love this newsletter? Share it with a friend or family member! 

Let’s grow this community together. 💌

News at a Glance

Hertfordshire Councils Respond to Government’s Local Government Reform Plans

The debate over the future of local government in Hertfordshire is heating up, and councils across the county are making their voices heard. While no formal proposals are on the table yet, here’s a snapshot of what each council is focusing on and committing to as they prepare their responses to the Government’s call for reform.

North Herts Council: Focused on protecting local decision-making, North Herts is strongly opposed to a single county-wide authority, arguing that Hertfordshire is too large for one council to serve effectively. They are committed to working with other districts to explore alternative models that preserve local voices.

East Herts Council: East Herts is prioritising local accountability and community input. They have promised to keep residents involved throughout the process and ensure any changes benefit local businesses and services.

Three Rivers District Council: With an open mind but a clear focus on residents' needs, Three Rivers is working with all 11 councils to develop evidence-based options. They are committed to putting community wellbeing and local services at the heart of any decision.

Watford Borough Council: Watford is pushing for a solution that supports local businesses and maintains their strong record of community services. They are committed to ensuring that reforms enhance, rather than diminish, local engagement and accountability.

Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council: Their priority is maintaining excellent services while embracing reforms that promote sustainability and efficiency. They are keen to explore options that empower local decision-making and strengthen community ties.

Hertsmere Borough Council: Strongly opposed to a single-unitary model, Hertsmere has joined other district leaders in warning against the loss of local representation. They are committed to working with partners to explore models that protect local democracy.

What’s Next?

While Hertfordshire won’t be part of the first phase of reforms, all councils are preparing to submit their initial plans by March and full proposals by November. The big question—what those proposals will look like—remains unanswered. But rest assured, we’ll be listening closely in the corridors of power to bring you the latest as it happens.

Stay tuned, Hertstown—this is your local government, and your voice matters!

Hertfordshire County Council Elections 2025: Candidate Briefing Scheduled for March

The Hertfordshire County Council elections are set for Thursday, 1 May 2025, with ten divisions in East Herts up for representation. Prospective candidates or agents for divisions including Bishop’s Stortford, Buntingford, Hertford, Sawbridgeworth, and Ware are invited to a crucial briefing on Wednesday, 12 March 2025, at 6pm. The session will be held at the East Herts Council offices and virtually via Microsoft Teams.

The briefing will cover key information such as nomination procedures, voting changes from the Elections Act 2022, election timetables, postal vote processing, polling day requirements, and candidate expense returns. Given the significant changes introduced by the Elections Act 2022, including updates to Voter ID rules and nomination processes, attendance is strongly advised, even for those who have participated in past elections.

To book a place, candidates and agents should email [email protected], providing their name, role, contact number, and preferred attendance method (in-person or online). Participants are also encouraged to share this invitation with others considering standing in the May elections.

NEWS FROM AROUND YOU

New Affordable Homes Completed in Borehamwood

Eleven new affordable homes have been completed on Eldon Avenue in Borehamwood, transforming a previously derelict and contaminated garage site into modern housing for local families. The development, featuring homes with private patios or balconies, is already welcoming new tenants.

The project was delivered by Hertsmere Developments Limited (HDL), a subsidiary of Hertsmere Borough Council, and has been sold to Hertsmere Living Limited (HLL), a joint venture between Hertsmere Borough Council and Watford Community Housing.

Council leaders and project representatives, including Cllr Jeremy Newmark, Sajida Bijle, Tina Barnard, Cllr Paul Hodgson-Jones, and Cllr Prabhakar Kaza, toured the newly completed site.

Cllr Paul Hodgson-Jones praised HDL’s achievement in delivering the project on time and within budget despite challenging market conditions. He also announced plans for HDL’s next two projects, which will transform underutilized brownfield sites to create more homes for local residents.

Josh Summers, Director of Operations & Development at HDL, highlighted the success of the collaboration and the quality of construction by Parrott, which has helped turn a disused site into much-needed affordable housing for the community.

Hertsmere Celebrates 40 Years of BBC EastEnders in Borehamwood

A special award was presented to the BBC EastEnders team to mark 40 years of the iconic soap opera being filmed in Borehamwood. The award was accepted by Executive Producer Chris Clenshaw on behalf of the entire EastEnders team, past and present.

Cllr Jeremy Newmark, Leader of Hertsmere Borough Council and Chair of Elstree Film Studios, presented the award, recognizing the show's cultural impact and contributions to the local screen sector.

Cllr Newmark praised EastEnders for its powerful portrayal of social issues and its role in shaping national conversations over four decades. He expressed pride in Hertsmere's connection to the show, describing it as a trailblazer that has contributed significantly to the borough’s reputation as a hub for film and television production.

The presentation, made on behalf of the council, Elstree Film Studios, and the local community, celebrated EastEnders'lasting legacy and its vital place in Hertsmere’s cultural heritage.

New Parking Machines and EV Chargers for North Herts

North Herts Council is rolling out upgraded parking machines across 22 car parks, featuring touchscreens and contactless payment options, including Apple and Google Pay. The new ‘Check In’ and ‘Check Out’ system lets drivers pay only for their stay, with no need to display tickets.

Installation begins on 17 February in Hitchin, followed by Baldock, Royston, and Knebworth on 10 March, and Letchworth on 18 March. Minimal disruption is expected, with Flowbird UK staff on-site to assist users.

EV charging points, managed by Blink Charging UK, will also be added to eight long-stay car parks, improving access to sustainable transport options.

Cllr Daniel Allen welcomed the upgrades, emphasizing the convenience of paying only for the time parked. Flowbird’s Thomas Harrington praised the new system for making parking more flexible and stress-free.

‘Solar Together’ Scheme Returns to Watford

Watford residents can now join the 'Solar Together' group-buying scheme to get discounted solar panels and reduce their energy bills. Since launching in 2021, the scheme has installed over 579 solar panels, saving residents £59,000 annually and cutting 1,150 tons of carbon over 25 years.

Organized by Watford Borough Council and Solar Together, the scheme offers affordable, high-quality solar panels through bulk buying. It supports the council’s goal of making Watford a net zero carbon town by 2030.

Cllr Ian Stotesbury praised the scheme for helping residents save money and cut emissions, while Mayor Peter Taylor highlighted its success in uniting the community to fight climate change.

Watford Businesses Celebrate Commitment to Sustainability

Businesses from across Watford gathered this week for the Watford Business Pledge Celebration Event, hosted by Elected Mayor Peter Taylor at the Leonardo Hotel on 12 February. The event recognized local businesses committed to sustainable and responsible practices through the Watford Business Pledge, an initiative by Watford Borough Council.

The Pledge encourages businesses to support the local economy, promote fair employment, adopt green practices, and contribute to the community. Early signatories include Berkeley, We Are Acuity, CSP, Stylo, Regal, Wirebox, Epson, and others.

The Assessor Panel, featuring representatives from local business organizations, evaluated and celebrated the businesses' contributions.

Mayor Peter Taylor praised the initiative for driving sustainable growth in Watford, while Economic Development Lead Cherie Norris highlighted the Pledge’s role in fostering collaboration and supporting the local economy.

The Watford Business Pledge offers members networking opportunities, promotional support, and access to resources to help meet their commitments. Local businesses can learn more and join at watfordlinkup.com.

Dacorum District Council Leader’s February Update – Key Highlights

The Dacorum District Council Leader shared updates on several important projects and initiatives:

• Three Cherry Trees Lane Closure: The council is exploring options to ease congestion following the road closure, including a possible review to partially open Boundary Way.

• Local Government Reform: The council has received an invitation from the Government to submit local government reorganisation proposals, with initial plans due in March. The focus remains on protecting services and ensuring democratic accountability.

• Hemel Hempstead Health Campus: A Programme Director is being recruited to lead the development of a new health campus to improve healthcare access for residents.

• Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Solar Together: The group-buying scheme for solar panels is back for 2025, aiming to reduce carbon emissions and cut energy costs. Registration closes on 4 April 2025.

  • Free Retrofit Plans: Homeowners can apply for a free energy efficiency survey and HERO plan (worth £250) until 31 March 2025.

  • Climate Action Event: The fourth Dacorum Climate Action Network event, Nature on the Brink, will be held on 10 March 2025 at The Forum, Hemel Hempstead.

  • Green Community Grants: Applications for grants up to £10,000 close on 14 February 2025.

• Cycling and Walking Infrastructure: A public consultation on the Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan (LCWIP) is open, inviting feedback on proposed improvements to active travel routes across Dacorum.

Residents are encouraged to stay engaged through the Let’s Talk Dacorum platform for consultation and feedback opportunities.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Happening Today: Free Girls Dance Project with FK Dance Academy! 💃🎉

Join FK Dance Academy today for a fun, free street dance session for girls aged 11-16! No experience needed – just come ready to move and enjoy the music! 🩰✨

📍 Location: Hatfield Swim Centre, Lemsford Road, Hatfield, AL10 0DH

🕔 Time: 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM

💸 Cost: FREE!

📅 Runs every Tuesday until 1st April 2025

All abilities are welcome, so bring your friends and join the fun! 🎉

Sign up now: Email [email protected] 📩

Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to dance, learn, and make new friends! 💃🎶 See you there! 🎉✨

🎶 Happening Today: Young at Herts – Live Music & Refreshments for Over 55s! 🎤☕

Join us today at Hollier Court for an afternoon of live music and good company, specially for those aged 55 and over! 🎉

🎶 Today's Performer: Tom Huttlestone – Enjoy his fantastic live performance!

📍 Location: Hollier Court, French Horn Lane, Hatfield, AL10 8BX

🕜 Time: 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM

💸 Cost: £3 (Includes refreshments)

📞 Booking: Call 01462 687065 to reserve your spot!

Don't miss this chance to enjoy great music, refreshments, and a friendly community vibe! See you there! 🎤☕🎉

Healthy Hub Pop-Up – Visit Us Today! 🩺💙

Join the Healthy Hub team today at Hatfield Library for free health and wellbeing advice and support. Whether you want to lose weight, stop smoking, cut down on drinking, get more active, or manage your money, we’re here to help!

📍 Location: Hatfield Library, White Lion Square, 26-32 Town Centre, Hatfield, AL10 0LD

🕚 Time: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM

💸 Cost: FREE!

No appointment needed – just drop in and chat with our friendly team. Get the support you need to live a healthier, happier life! 💙🩺 See you there!

TUESDAY WEATHER 🌥️ 

WELWYN GARDEN CITY

6°C 🌡️ -1°C | ☀️ Sunny and a gentle breeze | ☀️ Sunrise 07:10 Sunset 17:20

Thanks for Reading!

Have suggestions to improve our newsletter? Got a story to share? Email us at [email protected].

Interested in advertising with us? Drop us a line at the same email address.

If someone forwarded this email to you, be sure to thank them—and don’t miss out next time! Subscribe here.

Wishing you a fantastic rest of your day!

Cheers,
Editor-in-chief | Emeka Ogbonnaya

P.S. Want to sponsor our newsletter? Email us at [email protected]