Hitchin's town centre Churchgate redevelopment has taken a significant step forward following a well-received public consultation.

Over 1,500 people gave feedback through the consultation survey, which was open from September to November last year. Engagement activities included an in-person Consultation Hub which was open over several dates and had over 1,000 visitors. The consultation sought to build upon earlier feedback gathered in December 2022, further exploring the community's priorities for the town centre and its potential redevelopment.

The feedback report published today highlights five key recommendations coming out of the response to the consultation, which will underpin any future planning for regeneration. These are: 

1. Revitalisation of Hitchin Market 2. Sustainable Regeneration 3. Increased Accessibility 4. Affordable Housing 5. Community and Leisure Space

Hitchin Nub News spoke with North Herts District Council leader, Cllr Daniel Allen, about the findings of the consultation and what happens next.

Cllr Allen explained that "among the main concerns highlighted was the lack of play equipment for children in the town centre and the need to maintain and enhance green spaces. These priorities will be integral to the next phase of the project".

"The council is now seeking a development partner, with over a dozen developers already expressing interest. The ambition is to see work commence by 2028, with a vision for at least 40% of the housing on the site being classified as affordable in line with Council policies".

However, Cllr Allen notes that the plans for Churchgate will have to factor in the significant challenge on the horizon around the upcoming local government reorganisation.

By 2028, North Hertfordshire District Council (NHDC) and Hertfordshire County Council (HCC) will be replaced by a new and yet undefined unitary authority.

While various structural options are being considered Cllr Allen emphasised that importance of ensuring that the Churchgate regeneration will need to be ported into the priorities of the new governance structure.

At present, no fixed council budget has been set for the redevelopment, as financial planning is dependent on how the project takes shape. However, the council remains committed to ensuring the project is financially viable with minimal risk to public funds while delivering the best possible outcome for Hitchin. The vision includes generating continued council income from the site.

Political opponents may question the financial aspects of the project, but supporters argue that investment in the town centre is essential for its future prosperity. Hitchin's historic market remains central to the town's identity, and plans include exploring dual usage, ensuring the market remains a vibrant hub both day and night.

Parking and congestion were also prominent concerns raised during consultations.

Hitchin's weaknesses as highlighted by the consultation

Cllr Allen explained that "most of the parking spaces in Hitchin are controlled by NHDC, and solutions such as a multi-storey car park on the existing footprint are being considered. Improving public transport is another priority identified by the consultation. Current services are appalling, and I hope that a new Labour-led County Council in May can bring about improvements".

The development also aims to incorporate dedicated spaces for young people, ensuring that Hitchin's youth have a voice in shaping their town's future. While there are no plans for a traditional youth club, ideas such as a designated 'hangout area' are being explored in consultation with local schools.

Opponents have criticised the Council's leadership around the scheme to date and called for a freeze to increase parking charges as a way of supporting the town centre..

Cllr Ralph Muncer, leader of the North Herts District Council Conservative group, told Hitchin Nub News that "the Council hasn't yet got a plan for Churchgate and already we have seen mistakes being made, with the Labour and Liberal Democrat Administration purchasing the building for above market value".

"We want any regeneration to be successful and add value to Hitchin Town Centre, but there needs to be a clear business case before the Council commits to spending millions of pounds of taxpayers money on any potential project".

"It is likely to be years before we see any detailed proposals and costings regarding the future of Churchgate, but businesses in our Town Centre are struggling today as a result of anti-growth policies of both the Government and the Council".