Good morning and HapPy Monday!

We’re so happy you’ve joined us on this morning at Hertstown, the one and only newsletter built by residents for residents. From local news to events, sports, and a sprinkle of fun, we’ve got all the quick updates you need, straight from our community to your inbox.

Today we are sharing news from all the district councils in North-East and Central Hertfordshire to you, but first new from the County Council and the 100 anniversary of Hertfordshire Libraries.

Here are topics making news today:

• BID’s Plan to Transform Bishop’s Stortford’s Underused Car Park

• East Herts Solar Panel consultation

• Stanstead Abbotts & St Margarets - Neighbourhood Plan Consultation

• North Herts Council Awards £5,626 in Community Grants

• Food Gem - Sustainability Dinning at its finest

A warm welcome to all our new subscribers—thank you for joining the Hertstown family! Got thoughts or suggestions? We’d love to hear from you. Let’s make Hertstown your go-to for everything local!

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News at a Glance

Celebrating 100 Years of Hertfordshire Libraries: A Year of Events and Activities!

Hertfordshire County Council is thrilled to announce a year-long celebration marking 100 years of the Hertfordshire Libraries service. With 46 libraries across the county, the programme features a wide range of events, including literature and poetry celebrations, family theatre, comedy, and interactive exhibitions.

The celebrations kick off on 28 February 2025 with a launch event at Welwyn Garden City Library, featuring speeches, an interactive art session, and the unveiling of a touring exhibition showcasing the history of Hertfordshire libraries.

Highlights of the programme include:

• ‘A Tale of Us’: A new play for parents and babies, touring 10 libraries.

• ‘Big Herts Hero Hunt’: An interactive family theatre show exploring Hertfordshire’s heritage.

• Poetry Festival: A 100-day festival with workshops, competitions, and open-mic nights.

• Author Events: Evenings with Poet Laureate Simon Armitage, comedian Robin Ince, and bestselling author John Connolly.

The events were curated based on feedback from residents, ensuring the celebrations reflect the community’s interests.

Caroline Clapper, Executive Member for Education, Libraries and Lifelong Learning, said: “Libraries have transformed over the last century, offering accessible spaces and diverse services. We hope residents will join us in celebrating this milestone and discover the joy of their local library.”

👉 Find out more and explore the full events calendar: Hertfordshire Libraries Centenary

NEWS FROM AROUND YOU

BID’s Plan to Transform Bishop’s Stortford’s Underused Car Park

The Northgate End multi-storey car park, often called the "poisoned chalice," has long faced challenges like dim lighting, isolation, and low usage. Bishop’s Stortford BID is now taking action to turn this underutilized space into a safe, accessible, and valuable asset for the community.

Recent upgrades include brighter lighting, a security office, automatic entrance doors, and a tariff reduction to make it more cost-effective. The BID has also reintroduced Welcome Rangers, who are on-site Monday to Saturday during peak hours (4:00 PM to 8:30 PM) to enhance safety and assist users.

Northgate End is being repositioned as a long-stay option for workers, easing pressure on other car parks like Jackson Square and Link Road, which cater to short-stay visitors. With parking demand rising, the BID aims to maximize the car park’s potential and support the town’s growth.

"Northgate End is an untapped asset," says Karen Burton, BID joint-manager. "These improvements will make it a viable and welcoming option for everyone."

Stay tuned for more updates as the BID continues to enhance Bishop’s Stortford’s parking infrastructure.

Solar Together Registration Now Open!

Homeowners and small-business owners can now register for Solar Together, an initiative offering affordable solar panel installations. Get a personalised quote and join the move towards renewable energy.

👉 Register here: Solar Together Registration

Neighbourhood Plan Consultation – Stanstead Abbotts & St Margarets

Residents in Stanstead Abbotts, Stanstead St Margarets, and The Folly (Great Amwell) are invited to share their views on the draft Neighbourhood Plan. This plan will guide future development in the area and will become part of East Herts Council’s statutory development plan.

📅 Consultation Dates: 30 January – 14 March (5 PM)

👉 Learn more and have your say.

Don’t miss this chance to shape your community’s future and explore sustainable energy options!

North Herts Council Awards £5,626 in Community Grants to Local Organisations

North Herts Council has awarded grants totalling £5,626 to four local organisations, following recommendations from the Hitchin Community Forum. These funds will support projects that benefit the community and enhance residents' lives.

Carers in Hertfordshire received £1,393 to establish a new support hub in Hitchin. The hub will provide advice, wellbeing activities, and social connections for over 1,900 unpaid carers in the area.

The British Schools Museum was granted £1,133 to create an exhibition exploring the childhood storybooks of the late Queen Mother, Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon. The display will celebrate her local ties and Hitchin’s history, while upgrading the museum’s facilities for future use.

Hitchin Town Youth Football Club was awarded £1,300 to purchase new goalposts for Holwell Recreation Ground. Over 10 years, an estimated 20,000 young players will benefit from the improved facilities.

Caudwell Youth received £1,800 to support at-risk young people aged 11 to 24. The funding will help cover the salary of a Youth Support Coordinator and provide mentor training, empowering young people through tailored support.

Cllr Val Bryant, Executive Member for Community & Partnerships, said: “These grants reflect our commitment to addressing diverse community needs, from supporting carers and young people to celebrating heritage and improving sports facilities.”

For more information or to apply for future grants, visit:

Have Your Say on Stevenage’s Green Spaces – Share Your Views!

Stevenage Borough Council is inviting residents to share their thoughts on the future of the town’s green spaces. Following feedback from the community last year, the council has drafted two ten-year strategies for trees and woodlands and green spaces. These plans aim to create a network of well-used, well-loved, and well-maintained spaces that everyone can enjoy. They will focus on enhancing opportunities for health and wellbeing, supporting wildlife, promoting culture and learning, and strengthening community connections.

Your input is vital to shaping these strategies and ensuring they meet the needs of all residents. Whether you’re a frequent visitor to local parks, a nature enthusiast, or simply someone who values green spaces, your opinion matters. Don’t miss this chance to have your say – the deadline for responses is 23RD FEBRUARY. Together, we can make Stevenage’s green spaces even better for everyone to enjoy!

Complete the survey today and help us create a greener, healthier, and more vibrant Stevenage!

👉 Take the survey now

Stevenage Borough Council Seeks Residents’ Input on Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) Charges

Stevenage Borough Council is calling on residents to share their views on the proposed Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) charges. The CIL is a charge applied to developers constructing additional floorspace, with the funds used to support local infrastructure needed to accommodate growth in the area.

Following feedback from a consultation in late Autumn 2024, the council has developed a Draft Charging Schedule (DCS). This document outlines the proposed CIL charges and is now open for public consultation until 18 February 2025.

This is your chance to have a say on how development in Stevenage contributes to essential infrastructure, such as transport, schools, parks, and community facilities. Your input will help shape a fair and effective system that benefits the entire community.

Don’t miss this opportunity to make your voice heard!

👉 Complete the consultation here

Together, we can ensure that growth in Stevenage supports the needs of residents and enhances the quality of life for everyone.

Meet Your Councillors at Community Scheduled Surgeries in HITCHIN

If you missed last Saturdays surgery at Hitchin, then you should be ready to catch up in the next few Saturdays. Join your local Councillors at one of the upcoming Community Surgeries – a great opportunity to discuss matters of interest or concern, share your ideas, and connect with your community. Whether you have questions, feedback, or just want to chat, your Councillors are here to listen and help.

Event Details:

• 📆 Saturday 1 February - CLOSED

• 📍 Unit 16/17 Market Place, Hitchin

• 📆 Saturday 15 February

• 📍 Garden Square Shopping Centre

• 📆 Saturday 22 February

• 📍 Tesco, High Street, Baldock

🕗 All surgeries run from 10:30am to 12pm.

No appointment is needed – just drop by and join the conversation. Your input matters, and this is your chance to make your voice heard!

CLASSIFIED - JOBS

WELWYN HATFIELD IS HIRING!

Join us in making your community safer, healthier, and happier while building a rewarding career with great benefits and flexible working.

🌟 Make a difference. Grow your career. Enjoy work-life balance.

Search our current vacancies at https://orlo.uk/2HrfY

SKILLS WORKSHOP

Step 2 Skills Workshop – Boost Your Maths Confidence!

Looking to improve your maths and numeracy skills? Join the Step 2 Skills Workshop and gain confidence in topics like decimals, fractions, shapes, data, and more!

This workshop is designed for Hertfordshire residents aged 19+ with a maths grade of Level 2 or below. Whether you’re looking to refresh your skills or build a stronger foundation, this session is perfect for you.

Event Details:

• 📅 Date: Tuesday 4 March

• ⏰ Time: 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM

• 📍 Location: Hatfield Library

Spaces are limited, so don’t miss out!

Take the first step towards mastering maths – we look forward to seeing you there!

Find out more and book your place HERE

UPCOMING EVENTS

ParkPlay – Free Community Fun Every Saturday!

Make friends, get moving, and have fun at ParkPlay – a free weekly event for the whole community!

Join your local Play Leaders every Saturday morning at King George V Playing Fields for games, activities, and plenty of fun. Whether you’re young or young at heart, everyone is welcome to join in the fun and connect with your community.

Event Details:

• 📅 When: Every Saturday

• ⏰ Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

• 📍 Where: King George V Playing Fields (opposite the football pitches, beside the cricket pitches – look for the ParkPlay flag!)

How to Join:

👉 Register for free today: https://park-play.com/register/

Want to Get More Involved?

ParkPlay is looking for new PlayLeaders to help run games and activities! Paid and volunteer opportunities are available.

👉 Find out more: https://park-play.com/playleaders/

📧 Email: [email protected]

Don’t miss out on the fun – see you at ParkPlay!

🎭✨ Step into a World of Magic & Mystery! ✨🎭

Join us this half-term for an extraordinary Wicked Performance Workshop – a 3-day immersive experience where young performers will develop acting skills, unleash creativity, and even meet real witches! 🧙‍♀️🧙‍♂️

• 📅 Dates: Tuesday, Thursday & Friday

• 📍 Location: Thorn Grove Primary School, Bishop's Stortford

• 🔥 Why Join?

• 🎭 New activities daily – acting, dance, script reading & more!

• 🪄 Build confidence, creativity & stage presence!

• 📖 Get hands-on with storytelling & improvisation!

• 🩰 Master theatrical movement & dance!

• 📸 Meet the famous pink & green witches – photos included!

• 🎉 Wrap up with our Friday Wicked Party & Grand Showcase!

• 💥 Spots are vanishing fast! Don’t miss out! 💥

🌊✨ FREE MOANA WORKSHOP – Set Sail for an Adventure! ✨🌊

🎭 Calling all little adventurers! Join us for a Moana-themed workshop at Make Believe Bishop’s Stortford on 7th February from 5:30–7:30pm – completely FREE!

• 🌟 What’s in store?

• 🎤 Sing along to Moana’s biggest hits!

• 💃 Dance like a true island explorer!

• 🎭 Act out fun scenes from the story!

• 🎲 Play exciting themed games!

• 👧 For children aged 3 to 5 years – no experience needed, just come and have fun!

• 🚀 Spaces are limited – don’t miss out!

📩 Message us to BOOK NOW or call/WhatsApp Leanne on 07983 975124.

🌊 Come discover how far you’ll go – for FREE! 🌊

For One Night Only Comedy Club

Kick off Valentine’s Day with laughter at Hitchin’s best-kept-secret comedy club! Couples who laugh together are 86% more likely to enjoy their evening, so why not make it unforgettable?

• 📅 Date: 13th February, 2025. 08:00pm - 10:30om

• 📍 Location: The Market Theatre, 6a Sun Street, Hitchin, SG5 1AE

🎟️ Get your tickets here: https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/for-one-night-only-hitchin

Soul Brunch – A Perfect Valentine’s Weekend Treat

Looking for something special to do this February? Gather your loved ones for a Soul Brunch – whether it’s a romantic date or a fun outing with friends, this event is perfect for everyone.

• 📅 Date: Saturday 15 February

• ⏰ Time: 11:30 AM – 3:30 PM

• 💷 Price: £38 per person (over 18s only)

👉 Book your spot now and make this Valentine’s weekend one to remember!

FOOD GEM

Lussmanns – Sustainable Dining at Its Finest

Looking for a restaurant that’s as good for the planet as it is for your taste buds? Look no further than Lussmanns, the locals’ favourite sustainable dining spot. With branches in Hitchin, Harpenden, Berkhamsted, Highgate, Woburn, Hertford, and St Albans, Lussmanns has been leading the way in ethical dining since 2002.

Why We Love Lussmanns:

• Sustainable Sourcing: From MSC-certified seafood to organic, high-welfare meats and 95% UK-grown fruit and vegetables, every dish celebrates the finest local ingredients.

• Eco-Friendly Practices: The restaurants run on green energy, recycle 100% of waste, and support a range of charities.

• Seasonal Menus: Their à la carte menu changes with the seasons, ensuring every dish is fresh, flavourful, and at its peak.

Dish Highlights:

• Pan-seared MSC-certified sea bass with seasonal vegetables.

• Free-range roast chicken with organic herbs and a side of creamy mash.

• Vegan beetroot and walnut risotto, bursting with flavour.

Perfect for Every Occasion:
Whether you’re dining on a budget with their daily set menu, enjoying a family meal with the junior menu, or celebrating with a group using the party menu, Lussmanns delivers ethical, delicious dishes every time.

👉 Visit Lussmanns today and taste the difference sustainable dining makes!

MONDAY WEATHER 🌥️ 

WELWYN GARDEN CITY

8°C 🌡️ 4°C | ☁️ Light cloud and a gentle breeze | ☀️ Sunrise 07:38 Sunset 16:53

STEVENAGE

8°C 🌡️ 4°C | ☁️ Light cloud and a gentle breeze | ☀️ Sunrise 07:38 Sunset 16:53

HERTFORD

8°C 🌡️ 4°C | ☁️ Light cloud and a gentle breeze | ☀️ Sunrise 07:38 Sunset 16:53

LETCHWORTH GARDEN CITY

8°C 🌡️ 4°C | ☁️ Light cloud and a gentle breeze | ☀️ Sunrise 07:38 Sunset 16:53

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Wishing you a fantastic rest of your day!

Cheers,
Editor-in-chief | Emeka Ogbonnaya

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