18 Jan 2023
Controversial plans to redevelop the site of the former Harpenden Public Halls have been scrapped as part of council cost-saving measures.
The scheme called for the existing buildings to be demolished and replaced by four new blocks. This would have included 10 homes for social rent, 19 flats for sale at market rent and 322 square metres of commercial space.
There would also have been 29 car parking spaces, a landscaped footpath from the Common to Arden Grove and two green spaces including a courtyard.
But following a meeting of SADC’s regeneration and business committee, it was resolved to cease work on Harpenden Public Halls and pursue the disposal of the site at market rates following consultation with relevant interested parties.
The intention would also be to try and gain assurances from prospective purchasers that they will provide the requisite number of affordable homes/apartments that could be managed by a housing association, in line with planning policy.
See this week’s St Albans Times for more on this story.
