Spotlight Focus Innovation and opportunity support area’s growth

Rapidly emerging as a prime location for business growth, East Herts offers a dynamic mix of entrepreneurial innovation, strong community support

And Strategic Connectivity

While often overshadowed by its larger urban neighbours, the district is home to a diverse and flourishing business ecosystem spanning retail, professional services, creative industries and advanced manufacturing.

Home of Hertfordshire’s county town, East Herts consistently ranks as one of the UK’s most desirable places to live. Its appeal lies in a harmonious blend of excellent educational institutions, abundant green spaces and the charming market towns of Bishop’s Stortford, Buntingford, Hertford, Sawbridgeworth and Ware. This unique combination, coupled with seamless connectivity to London and Cambridge, offers residents an enviable balance of rural tranquillity and urban convenience, fostering a strong sense of identity and community pride.

Recognising the potential of local enterprises, East Herts District Council has been proactive in supporting business growth across various sectors.

In the past year alone, the council has distributed close to £200,000 in grants to businesses throughout the district. These grants have facilitated the expansion of retailers, professional services and creative industries, enabling many to transition from start-ups to established commercial entities.

Notable beneficiaries include Skill at Arms in Sawbridgeworth, which transformed old agricultural barns into new commercial units, and the Black Horse Pub in Brent Pelham, which developed boutique accommodation within its listed building to diversify income streams. Air Energy, last year’s recipient of the East Herts Business of the Year Award at the Chamber’s Inspiring Hertfordshire Awards, also received support to enhance its manufacturing and R&D capabilities, aiding large businesses in managing energy consumption.

The council’s commitment to nurturing local talent is further exemplified by its sponsorship of the Most Promising New Business category at this year’s Inspiring Herts Awards, celebrating innovators and entrepreneurs who contribute to the district’s economic vitality.

At a time when many councils are scaling back on arts and culture, East Herts has taken a bold step forward. August 2024 marked the grand opening of BEAM, a state-of-the-art cultural hub in Hertford. This ambitious project, born from a three-year redevelopment initiative costing nearly £31 million, transformed the former Hertford Theatre into a multifaceted arts venue designed to engage diverse audiences and invigorate the local economy.

BEAM’s impressive facilities include:

• Main auditorium: A 547-seat theatre hosting a variety of performances.

• Secondary theatre: A 150-seat space for intimate productions.

• Cinema screens: Three bespoke screens showcasing the latest films.

• Dance studio: A dedicated space for dance rehearsals and classes.

• Riverside café and bar: Offering scenic views and a relaxed atmosphere.

• Community room: A versatile space for local groups and events.

Designed by Bennetts Associates, BEAM seamlessly integrates modern architecture with the historic charm of Hertford. The venue’s strategic location along the River Lea enhances its appeal, making it a cultural beacon for residents and visitors.

The council’s investment in BEAM underscores its belief in culture as a vital contributor to the community’s prosperity and well-being. As Simon Erridge, Director at Bennetts Associates, remarked: “The completion of BEAM reinforces Hertford’s growing reputation as a great place to live and visit.”

East Herts is not only preserving its rich cultural heritage but also strategically planning for future growth. In January 2025, the council granted planning permission for 10,000 new homes in the Gilston area, a significant milestone aimed at addressing housing needs and enhancing community infrastructure. This development reflects the district’s proactive approach to accommodating population growth while maintaining the quality of life that residents cherish.

Moreover, the council is engaging in discussions regarding local government reorganisation, ensuring that any changes align with the best interests of the community. Council Leader Ben Crystall emphasised the importance of local decision-making, stating: “I believe firmly that decisions that affect residents should always be made locally.”

East Herts exemplifies a district that harmoniously blends tradition with progress. Its unwavering support for local businesses, substantial investments in arts and culture, and strategic planning for sustainable growth position it as a dynamic and desirable place to live, work and explore. As the district continues to evolve, its strong sense of community and commitment to enhancing residents’ quality of life remain steadfast, ensuring a prosperous future for all who call East Herts home.

Centre of learning and opportunity

Hertford Regional College stands as a key educational institution within East Herts, playing a vital role in both the local economy and the development of skilled professionals. Established in 1991 through the merger of Ware College and East Herts College, the institution builds upon a rich educational heritage dating back to the 1960s.

Situated in an area known for its strong transport links, Hertford Regional College benefits from its proximity to London, Cambridge and Essex. This connectivity not only enhances accessibility for students and staff but also strengthens the college’s ability to collaborate with businesses beyond the immediate region. With more than 350 staff members, a significant proportion of whom reside locally, the college remains deeply embedded in the East Herts community.

One of the institution’s defining strengths is its close ties with local employers. East Herts has become an attractive location for businesses across diverse industries, enabling the college to cultivate valuable partnerships. These collaborations provide students with enhanced employment prospects, ensuring they graduate with the skills and experience necessary to succeed in a competitive job market.

Beyond its academic and vocational offerings, Hertford Regional College, with its campuses in Ware and Broxbourne, thrives within a vibrant local environment. East Herts is known for its low crime rates, outstanding schools, and ample green spaces, all of which contribute to a high quality of life for students and staff alike. This dynamic setting not only supports learning but also encourages community engagement, reinforcing the college’s role as a hub of education and opportunity in the region.

With its strong foundations, industry connections, and commitment to student success, Hertford Regional College continues to be a driving force in East Herts, equipping the next generation with the knowledge and skills to excel in their careers.

East Herts exemplifies a district that harmoniously blends tradition with progress. Its unwavering support for local businesses, substantial investments in arts and culture and strategic planning for sustainable growth position it as a dynamic and desirable place to live, work and explore.