A public exhibition updating residents as to the latest plans around the Highover Farm development drew in crowds last Thursday (5th June)

The prime focus of the event was to show more details as to "Phase 1" of the scheme that will see 256 properties built with building work expected to commence in a year's time if there's agreement around the design code.

Unsurprisingly there were lots of questions from residents concerning the traffic impact of the new development with officials present quick to talk about their hopes that "sustainable travel" options will alleviate heavy traffic around Cambridge Road during rush hours.

You can leave more comment on the proposals on the development site here.

Residents hoping that the development of the site would be complemented by wider transport improvements to the area may have seen the news that Hertfordshire has received nothing in the latest round of central government funding to boost regional transport links outside London.

Following the announcement of £15bn of funding Councillors in Hertfordshire have expressed dismay that the county has received nothing.

Hertfordshire has hundreds of miles of roads along with critical public transport links to the capital, Cambridge and the Midlands and urgently needs additional funding to boost all forms of sustainable transport.

Councillor Paul Zukowskyj, Executive Member for Environment, Transport and Growth, Hertfordshire County Council said: "This latest funding announcement from government really is disappointing for the people of Hertfordshire, who contribute so much to our national economy. Once again, we have been overlooked by government and I make this pledge now, I will do everything I can to make sure our need for support in future is heard in the corridors of power."  

There is another opportunity to meet the Highover Farm Developers on 17th June, at the Hitchin Community Forum where they will be presenting an update followed by Q&A at 7.30pm in the Hitchin Town Hall.

There's more feedback on the event at the Highover Development Action Group Facebook page.