You may be aware that the Parish Council recently announced that the plan has encountered some difficulties.
An independent review has identified problems with the previous Steering Group’s site selection process and the lack of proper resident input. Due to these issues, the originally favoured location may no longer be capable of accommodating the minimum 84 dwellings required in the Neighbourhood Plan. The Parish Council will need to reassess four potential development locations and consult with residents again.
AMWELL PLACE FARM
BARCLAY GRANGE
HAILEYBURY
LAND TO REAR OF HERTFORD HEATH MOTORS
We want to keep you informed about the HHNP’s progress. We’re committed to a plan that genuinely reflects the community’s needs and wants.
The current neighbourhood plan relies on payments the Parish Council receives from developments for community benefits, but the Hertford Heath Neighbourhood Plan’s heavy focus on housing, leaves vital improvements unaddressed. The Parish Council has now warned that changes to CIL payments it will receive means residents will need to be re-consulted to lower their expectations: reduced developer contributions mean less funding for desired projects identified in the NHP. As a result, Hertford Heath risks a housing development which increases the size of the village by 10% that does little to enhance the lives of its residents.
The Parish Council now have an opportunity to reconsider its strategy. Working directly with developers could guarantee meaningful benefits that extend beyond housing. This collaborative approach, proven successful in Watton-at-Stone, would prioritise the community’s specific goals as part of the master plan. This partnership is crucial, as relying solely on CIL payments won’t create the development residents deserve.
Neighborhood Plans should shape communities for the better, benefiting current and future residents. Prioritising housing alone, without considering green spaces, infrastructure, or community amenities, is a short-sighted mistake. To ensure a positive future for Hertford Heath, the Parish Council must avoid a ‘housing only’ approach and work with developers to integrate community benefits into their master plan. This should be a binding commitment, not an afterthought, to guarantee residents see the improvements they deserve. This approach is supported by East Herts DC , as it contributes to wider sustainability objectives and helps deliver community benefits. However, the ultimate decision rests with the Parish Council.
We’re committed to a plan that genuinely reflects the community’s needs and wants and your involvement is crucial.
We would encourage you to engage with the Parish Council and make your voice heard to help shape a plan that benefits all of Hertford Heath residents. visit: Hertford Heath Parish Council Neighbourhood Plan – Hertford Heath Parish Council
visit : www.barcalygrange.com to read the full article for more details and the review’s key findings .
