Highway restrictions designed to halt the spread of Covid are to remain in Hitchin – while residents decide whether they should stay for the long term.

One-way systems, reduced parking and wider walkways are among the measures implemented last year to enable shoppers, resident and traders to remain socially distanced.

In our town, and other areas across the county including Harpenden, Hertford, Rickmansworth, Royston, St Albans (four areas), Borehamwood, Bishop Stortford (Station Road), Welwyn and Watford, the measures will not be immediately removed.

That's because, in these locations the county council say there has been a good level of support for the measures – with some requests for them to stay.

They say further consideration will be given – as the focus shifts from public health to economic recovery – to whether they stay or not.

As a result residents and business owners are now being invited to give their views, which will be considered in any future changes.

And a consultation has been set up by the county council at www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/highstreetrecovery