The Environment, Transport and Growth Cabinet Panel met on Wednesday 24 September 2025 to discuss the future of Hertfordshire's high streets, the progress of the Local Nature Recovery Strategy, and the introduction of a new Spatial Development Strategy. The panel recommended that officers develop plans for a summit or conference in spring 2026, noted the progress of the Local Nature Recovery Strategy, and was introduced to the upcoming Spatial Development Strategy.

Hertfordshire's High Streets

The panel discussed a motion regarding the challenges facing Hertfordshire's high streets. Councillor Graham proposed a summit to bring together partners across the county to address these issues, highlighting the impact of retail parks, increased operating costs for businesses, and the loss of jobs in the retail sector. He also pointed to the negative consequences of parking policy changes in areas like Kings Langley and Radlett, where the removal of free parking had led to the closure of local businesses.

Officers noted the merit of the proposal and indicated that Hertfordshire Futures is working on a new economic strategy that could incorporate a summit or series of events focused on town centres and high streets. Councillor Workley expressed strong support for the motion, drawing on his experience as a former Cabinet member for economic development and town centres in the Borough of Broxbourne, where initiatives like the Love Hoddiston bid and securing levelling up funding for Waltham Cross have been implemented. He emphasised the importance of collaboration between councils, businesses, and communities.

Councillor Roberts, while supporting the overall sentiment, raised concerns about the proposed autumn deadline for the summit, suggesting a more realistic timetable would be beneficial to ensure comprehensive input. He also stressed the need to focus on both the challenges and opportunities facing high streets, and to ensure that any proposed solutions are innovative and adaptable to evolving consumer needs.

Following the debate, the panel agreed to recommend that officers develop plans for a summit or conference in spring 2026. This event will focus on the future of high streets, best practices, and will feed into the wider economic strategy. The recommendation also included inviting relevant ministries and government representatives to participate.

Local Nature Recovery Strategy Update

The panel received an update on the Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS), a key component of the government's Environment Act, aimed at identifying ecologically significant areas and priority species. Lynn, presenting the report, explained that Hertfordshire County Council is the responsible authority for delivering the strategy, but that its creation has been a collaborative effort involving numerous organisations across the county. She highlighted the invaluable input from these partners, who provided expertise and goodwill, saving significant public expenditure.

Mark provided a demonstration of the web-based LNRS, showcasing its interactive map functions that allow users to explore identified actions for nature recovery categorized by habitat. Councillors were able to direct Mark to specific areas to view the mapped actions. A discussion ensued regarding the data's currency, with officers explaining that while the data is drawn from the best available sources, it represents a snapshot and is not live-updated.

The strategy's role in the planning system was clarified: while it cannot halt development in identified areas of importance, it will inform local plans and planning decisions. Developers may be incentivised to undertake biodiversity net gain¹ off-site in areas of high ecological value, making it more cost-effective for them to contribute positively to nature recovery. Officers also noted that while gardens cannot be directly mapped in the LNRS, the strategy will include measures to help individuals understand how to make their own plots more wildlife-friendly.

The panel was asked to note the report and thank the numerous organisations that have contributed to the LNRS, including the Environment Agency, Forestry Commission, Hertfordshire Wildlife Trust, and all district and borough councils. The formation of a Hertfordshire Nature Recovery Partnership was highlighted as the next step for delivering improvements to biodiversity across the county.

Introduction to the Spatial Development Strategy

David introduced the concept of the Spatial Development Strategy (SDS), a new strategic layer of planning being introduced by the government. The SDS will guide large-scale housing and economic development, and the necessary infrastructure to support growth. While currently the responsibility of county councils, it is intended to become the responsibility of the future mayor following devolution.

The SDS will need to consider economic, social, and environmental well-being, and take into account the Local Nature Recovery Strategy and health inequalities. It is envisioned as a long-term vision for development and an investment strategy, guiding local plans prepared by district and unitary authorities. The report noted that the county council has been working on joint spatial plans for the southwest and northeast of Hertfordshire, which will form the basis for the county-wide SDS.

Councillor Taylor emphasised the importance of joined-up thinking in spatial planning to avoid undermining services and to direct growth effectively. He specifically highlighted the need to prioritise transport infrastructure, public transport, and non-car alternatives in the SDS. Councillor Buckmaster raised concerns about potential conflicts within the planning system, particularly regarding five-year housing supply and the impact of speculative developments, and expressed hope that the SDS would mitigate these issues. Councillor Willoughby welcomed the SDS as a positive step forward, believing it will help unlock growth by strategically planning for infrastructure.

The panel was asked to note the report and accompanying presentation regarding the County Council's new responsibilities for the production of a Spatial Development Strategy.

Local Transport Plan Annual Progress Report 2024/25

Cathy presented the annual progress report for the current Local Transport Plan (LTP), highlighting examples of delivered work during the 2024-25 financial year. These included the Dutch-style roundabout at Boundary Way in Hemel Hempstead, improved bus ticketing measures, and refurbished underpasses. The report is a factual public-facing record and does not propose funding or policy changes.

Councillor Willoughby raised the point that while the report highlights positive achievements, it would be beneficial to also address areas where improvements are needed, particularly concerning safe travel and active travel. He cited concerns about the impact of reduced street lighting on shift workers and women's ability to travel safely. Officers agreed that this is an important debate for future LTP planning, which will involve gathering evidence on personal safety and other issues.

Councillor Taylor suggested that future reports should outline the longer-term strategy, planned projects, and the gap between completed and remaining work. He also proposed including an assessment of how different transport modes are meeting the needs of various corridors within the county. Councillor Smith-Wright highlighted the success of the Stevenage underpass improvements and suggested including examples of street art projects, such as the one in Waltham Cross, which enhanced public spaces and fostered collaboration. Councillor Fisher noted the importance of the Heart's Links service, a demand-responsive transport initiative, and inquired about its future development. Officers confirmed that funding is secured for several years and that efforts are underway to make the service more efficient and potentially expand it, though funding challenges remain.

The panel was asked to note the annual progress report, which will be published on the County Council website.