| In August 2024, residents spoke with a clear voice, overwhelmingly supporting a Neighbourhood Plan (NHP). Over 30 residents stepped forward, prepared to give their time to form a steering group – a testament to the community’s commitment to creating a sustainable, community-driven vision for growth and development. This plan promises to protect the environment, deliver tangible community benefits, and ensure the village grows in a way that respects its unique character. Now, the Parish Council holds the key to turning this vision into reality. Their upcoming decision on whether to proceed with the NHP is critical—not just to honour the will of the people, but to protect Hertford Heath from a looming threat.Without a robust NHP, residents risk losing control over the village’s future growth, leaving it vulnerable to speculative developments that could bypass local priorities and deliver minimal community benefit. This threat is further amplified by a recent decision confirming that East Herts Council is unable to demonstrate a five-year housing supply, creating increased opportunities for developers to appeal planning refusals and impose unsuitable developments. This situation has arisen partly because Neighbourhood Plans in Category 1 Villages, such as Hertford Heath, which were initiated as far back as 2017, have not been completed to address the local housing needs identified in the District Plan. The Urgency of Action: Why the NHP is Essential Nearby Buntingford (Appeal Ref:APP/J1915/W/24/3340497) serves as a stark reminder of what can happen when communities lack a plan. Large housing developments, approved on appeal due to the absence of a five-year housing supply, overwhelmed infrastructure and failed to align with local needs. The Parish Council has the power to prevent this from happening in Hertford Heath. The decision they make at their 9th December 2024 meeting will determine whether the community seizes this opportunity to shape its own future and secure the long-requested community benefits or risks being sidelined in decisions about growth and development. The Good News – Funding Secured East Herts Council supports the continuation of the Neighbourhood Plan (NHP) and has committed funding and resources to address shortcomings identified in the independent Aecon review. Additionally, the Parish Council has confirmed that it has secured the necessary funding to: * Update the Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA): This crucial assessment evaluates the environmental implications of the proposed plan, ensuring it aligns with sustainability goals. By addressing previously identified flaws, the updated SEA will provide a stronger foundation for the NHP that aligns with both local and national policies. * Conduct Public Consultations: These consultations will offer residents the opportunity to voice their opinions, provide valuable feedback, and help shape a plan that truly reflects the community’s priorities grounded on sound and accurate information.These developments represent a significant opportunity to correct past irregularities, and create a stronger, more effective NHP that aligns with both community aspirations and expert recommendations. The NHP:Empowering Residents, Shaping Your Future! The Neighbourhood Plan is more than just a document; it’s a tool for residents to: Plan Sustainable Growth: Meet housing targets while prioritising affordable homes, green spaces, infrastructure improvements, and community benefits. Protect Against Speculative Development: Safeguard the village from inappropriate developments imposed through appeals. Preserve Local Control: Public feedback will be directly integrated into key decisions, ensuring the NHP reflects community priorities and that decisions about Hertford Heath’s future are made by its residents, not external forces. The Parish Council, entrusted with this responsibility, must honour the community’s mandate and ensure complete transparency and open communication throughout the process. Residents deserve to be fully informed and involved in shaping the future of their village through a neighbourhood plan. A Shared Vision for Hertford Heath At Barclay Grange, we are committed to supporting a transparent and inclusive NHP process that reflects the values and aspirations of Hertford Heath residents. This process provides residents with a platform to shape their future, delivering tangible community benefits alongside housing. The Parish Council now has an opportunity to leverage East Herts Council’s resources and work collaboratively with the community to create a thriving future for the village. How You Can Make a Difference Contact the Parish Council: Express your support for the NHP and emphasise the importance of transparency and community engagement. Engage in the Process: Attend the 9th December 2024 Parish Council meeting, participate in consultations, and make your voice heard. Stay Informed: Follow updates, share information, and encourage your neighbours to get involved. Together, you can create a Neighbourhood Plan that not only safeguards Hertford Heath but also builds a thriving, inclusive, and sustainable future for generations to come. |
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