unitary authority

The Government has announced that four new unitary councils are to be formed in Hertfordshire.

The decision means that Hertfordshire County Council and the ten district and borough councils will be reorganised to form four new unitary authorities, North West Hertfordshire, South West Hertfordshire, Central Hertfordshire and Eastern Hertfordshire. The four new authorities will, from April 2028, provide the services previously provided by the county, district and borough councils.

This means that Three Rivers District Council will form part of the South West Hertfordshire Council.

Eastern Hertfordshire Council will also include Royston Heath, Royston Palace, Royston Meridian, Ermine, Weston and Sandon wards from North Herts Council, and Northaw and Cuffley ward from Welwyn Hatfield District Council.

What does this mean for you?

There will be no immediate changes to services and you will continue to represent your residents until Vesting Day on 1 April 2028.

Elections for the ‘Shadow Authority’ will take place in May 2027 which will oversee the transition from the existing councils to the unitary authority. On 1 April 2028, councillors of the Shadow Authority will formally take over responsibility for the new authority.

How can you find out more?

A members’ briefing will be scheduled for the coming days, at which you will be able to ask more questions and find out more from me, the chief executive, and the leader Cllr Stephen Giles-Medhurst OBE.

Council change & e-bike concern

Message received 28th November – via email

By splitting the Council into three different areas will this not mean some work will be more than doubled up. We certainly don’t need more expense.

……………………

As a regular walker at The Aquadrome I have seen many times people nearly hit by cyclists. Introducing and encouraging electric bikes to this area must not be allowed.

PEOPLE WILL BE KNOCKED DOWN.

RDRA response:

Many thanks for your email. County reorganisation is a central government initiative. All 11 district and borough councils have presented their proposals. It’s up to the government as to what option/s they will go for. My understanding is that we may get to vote on the proposal or maybe get offered a fair au comply. Keep watching the TRDC website for more info.

Re: cyclists and e-bikes in the Aquadrome , we as residents association do not have any direct influence . As you can imagine, these people are also local residents and unless this activity is made illegal, they have the same rights as any other group. What I’d suggest is that you should write to the council and voice your concerns. We as your residents association, raise this issue at relevant forums to make it as safe as possible for all users of the Aquadrome as possible for better enjoyment of all.

Four new councils for Hertfordshire

Council change & e-bike concern