Local Environmental Initiatives
Hertford Civic Society supports and celebrates the environmental improvements and campaigning initiated by other agencies across Hertford, with a special focus on green agendas.
Some local initiatives we have supported include:
- Purchase of Bean Marsh: Our members individually donated to the fund set up by the Marsh. The fund has now been gifted by the community to the Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust for the upkeep of the area. Bean Marsh will now have cattle grazing for the first time in 40 years, helping to improve wildlife's habitat.
- Modernisation & Development of Children's Play Areas: HCS have supported the development of new play areas across Hertford, including Hartham Common which was developed by the Council in partnership with Hartham Playground Alliance. Planning permissions now require new estates to dedicate an area for leisure, promoting open public spaces for all ages.
- Four Chalk Rivers: The four rivers, Beane, Mimram, Lee, and Rib, provide natural areas of relaxation. HCS is supporting East Herts Council's plan to plant more native trees in the Warren, promoting wildlife.
- Castle Gardens: The HCS have commented on a report recommending improvements to Hertford Castle Gardens. The focus is on moving children's play areas away from road pollution and restoring the 'Old Nuttery'.
- Hertford Swift Group: There has been a decline in the number of swifts in Hertford due to a loss of suitable nest sites. The Swift Group is running a project to remedy this and seeing success.
- Public Gardens: HCS welcomes the gradual planting of more 'old fashioned' plants in keeping with the historic ambience of the town.
About Hertford
Local Civic Society Events
Through our series of talks, we share our network of associates' breadth of historical, architectural, and local knowledge.
Planning Representation
We attend planning meetings for local projects, advocating for issues that affect Hertford and its residents.
Transport Plans
Air quality, the environment, and improving the quality of life for residents across generations are issues that The Civic Society approaches with direct effect. We are focused on improving the livability and sustainability of Hertford with efforts such as Hertford Bypass and A414 Traffic, and Mass Rapid Transport Systems. Safe Travel to Schools, Cycle Paths, See ideas here and ring along your own for campaigning projects.
Local Campaigns & Lobbying
The welfare and happiness of local residents is a top priority of the Hertford Civic Society. Our duty is to help you campaign and lobby for the maintenance and preservation of the community.
Our Green Belt
Hertford Civic Society is committed to conserving our rich, natural environment, making sure our environment enhances residents' and visitors’ experiences.
Local Environmental Issues (Pollution)
We focus on prioritising areas of natural beauty, improving air quality, and promoting the growth of native trees and wildlife. We are lucky to have our four chalk rivers, which provide natural leisure and relaxation areas. We are dedicated to the continuous improvement and maintenance of these areas. We are also committed to implementing more cycle lanes to decrease pollution and maintain our green belt.
Hertford Civic Society Policies
We provide updates and news on local and national policies relevant to our work at the Hertford Civic Society.
Licensing Applications
Our priority is to preserve and conserve areas of beauty and historical value. The Civic Society has 60 years of experience dealing with planning and licensing issues. Join us and help as we examine and comment on planning applications and major developments.
Green Fingers
We support and campaign to retain and protect Green Belt land and the recognition of Hertford’s ‘Green Fingers’, first designated in the Local Plan by HCS submissions. We continue to recognise the importance of Green Fingers’ role in various town policies, focusing on their crucial benefits for residents and the environment.
Hertford Fountain
Hertford Fountain was opened in 1994 after a competition for the fountain’s design and construction was won by William Pye. The fountain depicts the intertwining four rivers flowing through Hertford’s green spaces.
Architectural Awards
We regularly run architectural awards, recognising excellence in build and renovation design.
Hertford Plaques
Take a tour of HCS Hertford blue plaques highlight buildings of merit.
Bengeo Quarry
We provided instrumental support to prevent the Bengeo Quarry's development. In April 2019, the Secretary of State agreed with the Government Inspector that the appeal should be dismissed and planning permission be refused. This was a great triumph for the local community and surrounding environment.
Happy Healthy Hertford
Hertford Civic Society is committed to promoting a happy, healthy Hertford. Our focus is on maintaining a natural, sustainable environment and ensuring residents' happiness is our top priority.
Previous Talks
To ensure community concerns are addressed, we provide a platform for information and discussion, with talks from our specially selected guest speakers.
Newsletters Archive
Our newsletters are issued periodically and focus on town issues and events, letting you know how we are involved.
Local Leisure Facilities
Hertford Civic Society is committed to the promotion and improvement of local leisure facilities across Hertford. We work to ensure the community's culture is maintained, and green spaces are prioritised.
Send Us A Message
Use our contact form to send us a message and one of the team will be in touch.