Herts Council has published its five Development Principles which will guide the regeneration of the Churchgate Regeneration Zone in Hitchin town centre.

The council has published a new report outlining the key technical work that has been undertaken so far in regards to the site – which encompasses the Churchgate Shopping Centre, Hitchin Market, and four surrounding car parks.

The new report includes five key Development Principles that will shape the future of the town.

These principles are:

• Heritage-led regeneration – retaining and enhancing historic character within the town, alongside introducing complementary development 
• Multi-use developments - integrating residential, retail, and leisure together to support a diverse local economy 
• Market and riverfront revitalisation - transforming Hitchin Market and the River Hiz corridor into a dynamic, community-centred hub  
• Integrating green infrastructure, low-carbon technologies, and smart mobility
• Unlocking new development potential in underutilised sites without overdeveloping heritage areas.

The development principles take into account the recommendations that came out of the public consultation towards the end of 2024, combined with expert research into the area including the constraints and opportunities of the site; a market review of demand for homes, leisure and retail; analysis of existing transport links and behaviours; and how a proposed redevelopment would fit into the wider town.

Leader of North Herts Council, Cllr Daniel Allen, said: "We know Churchgate means a lot to local people — and this project is about getting it right. That's why we've spent time combining what we heard from the public with expert reviews in planning, design, transport and the local economy.

"Having a town centre that enriches the lives of all of its residents and visitors, while supporting the local economy with a varied leisure and retail offering is crucial, and these principles will now guide our next steps – including starting the process of seeking a development partner who can help bring this vision to life.

"The voices of local people will remain central to the regeneration plans as they progress, and we look forward to sharing more updates in the near future." 

To view the latest summary report, visit: Churchgate Shopping Centre regeneration | North Herts Council

To view the film with Cllr Daniel Allen discussing the development principles, visit: Our Churchgate Development Principles - YouTube