North Herts Council is preparing a new Local Plan to ensure the district grows sustainably and meets government requirements. Following an initial consultation on residents' priorities, the council is now seeking feedback on a range of potential approaches for the plan.
The new Local Plan will guide future development across North Hertfordshire, focusing on supporting communities, protecting landscapes and habitats, and delivering necessary homes, jobs, and infrastructure. Key priorities identified include ensuring housing meets diverse needs, climate resilience in development, and access to green spaces.
Potential approaches include proposals for self and custom build requirements, community energy schemes, and the designation of Locally Valued Landscapes. Details are available on the North Herts Council website, with printed versions at the Customer Service Centre in Letchworth and libraries in Letchworth, Baldock, Hitchin, Knebworth, and Royston.
The council will host informal drop-in sessions across the district for residents to speak directly with planning officers. Upcoming sessions include: Kimpton Memorial Hall (12 October, 3pm – 6pm), Cockernhoe Memorial Hall (13 October, 3.30pm – 6.30pm), Knebworth Village Hall (19 October, 3.30pm – 6.30pm), Royston Town Hall (20 October, 3.30pm – 6.30pm), Ashwell Village Hall (26 October, 3.30pm – 6.30pm), Graveley Village Hall (27 October, 3.30pm – 6.30pm), Baldock Community Centre (2 November, 3.30pm – 6.30pm), Hitchin Town Hall (9 November, 3.30pm – 6.30pm), and Mrs Howard Memorial Hall, Letchworth (10 November, 3.30pm – 6.30pm).
Councillor Donna Wright, North Herts Council’s Executive Member for Place, stated: “The feedback we received earlier this year from residents, businesses, community groups, and stakeholders on their priorities for our new Local Plan was invaluable. As we continue to develop our new Local Plan, I’d like to encourage as many people as possible to have their say on the range of potential approaches we could take as it is key the new Local Plan reflects the needs and priorities of our communities.”
Additionally, the council is sharing details of potential development sites submitted by landowners. Views on these sites are being sought to inform their assessment. Information can be found on the council's website. For those without computer access, the Customer Service Centre in Letchworth is open Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm. Assistance is available by calling 01462 464000 or emailing yourlocalplan@north-herts.gov.uk.
