Issue - meetings

To receive an update on the eastern entrance at Hitchin Station.

Councillor Ruth Brown provided a verbal update on the Hitchin Station Eastern Entrance project.

Audio Recording – 62 minutes 55 seconds

Councillor Ruth Brown presented an update on Hitchin Station’s Eastern Entrance and highlighted the following key points:

·       Work had been going on in the background.

·       The Council did apply for money via the Government Levelling up fund but couldn’t justify the operational costs.

·       Councillor Brown thanked the officers who have been trying to prepare a bid.

·       There was also an issue with the ownership of the land.

·       Councillor Brown said that we were still keen to progress the project and were widening the scope to improve the East / West Access in Hitchin to make it safer for pedestrians and cyclists, so that we will be ready when further funding becomes available.

·       Subject to resources and availability of funds Councillor Ruth Brown said she was committed to the project.

Councillor Sam Collins thank Councillor Ruth Brown for her update.

The following Members, officers and members of public participated in a discussion:

·       Councillor Keith Hoskins

·       Councillor Ian Albert

·       Councillor Elizabeth Dennis-Harburg

Points raised in the debate included:

·       It was agreed this is part of a wider issue, not only to give access to the station but to make pedestrians and cyclists safer.

·       It was noted that during the last round of bids, GTR were not present, and it would be helpful to have their representation on the project. Patrick Ladbury confirmed they would be happy to be involved.

·       There was a need to work in partnership with Herts County Council / Govia Thameslink Railway and Network Rail for this project.