Welcome to November or should I say Movember! You’ll have to forgive me if I sound distracted… I’m working on my moustache for the campaign this month 😄.

What a weekend it’s been, fireworks lighting up the skies, spooky zombies roaming the streets, and rain-soaked trick-or-treaters showing true dedication to Halloween spirit! As the echoes of Halloween fade, this week continues with firework displays and Remembrance Sunday on the 9th, moments of both celebration and reflection.

And yes, there’s plenty of news to dive into. From council updates and community happenings to a surprising political twist (yes, that acquittal), we’ve got all the top stories across Hertfordshire lined up for you.

Here’s what’s making headlines today:

🔥 Hertfordshire Secures Another Multi-Million Pound Data Centre Investment
🏫 County Unveils Transformative SEND Strategy After Damning Inspection
🏘️ Councillors in North Herts Reject 280-Home Development
🇺🇸 Broxbourne Honours American Heroes at 81st Anniversary of Liberator Memorial
🗳️ Reform UK Wins First Stevenage Seat in Historic By-Election Victory
🎭 St Albans Museums Launch November Festival of History, Horror and Creativity

…and plenty more local stories that keep Hertfordshire buzzing.

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Hertfordshire County Council has published its draft SEND strategy for 2026-29, nearly two years after inspectors found "widespread and systemic failings." The plan promises transformative change with six "outcome bees": Be Included, Independent, Ambitious, Safe, Healthy, and Resilient. Major improvements show 89% of education health and care plans now issued on time versus 38% in July 2023, while quality ratings soared from 5% to 66% "good" or "outstanding." Developed with NHS partners, 524 schools, and 531 parent survey responses, the strategy prioritizes early intervention and collaboration. It will be discussed Thursday (6 November) before public consultation and April 2026 finalisation.

Council Leader Jeremy Newmark welcomed Equinix UK Managing Director James Tyler to discuss the company's new Hertfordshire Campus data centre. The critical national infrastructure project promises digital growth opportunities, high-quality jobs, and synergies with the local film and television sector. Equinix will lead development with focus on sustainability practices.

Learn more: https://newsroom.equinix.com/2025-10-30-Equinix-to-invest...

Bushey Rose Garden's historic cloisters are being restored to preserve the treasured space for future generations. Part of the garden is temporarily fenced for safety during construction, with completion expected by early December. The restoration will return the Victorian structure to its original beauty.

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North Herts Council refused permission for 280 homes on Royston's Barkway Road on Thursday, 23 October, voting 7-3 against officers' recommendations. Councillors cited exclusion from the Local Plan and poor accessibility for non-drivers despite £1.56m earmarked for highway improvements. Officers warned the council has just 3.9 years' housing supply—below the required five-year minimum—risking costly appeals. Councillor Dave Winstanley argued the site was "inaccessible" and "not suitable for active travel." Committee chair Nigel Mason acknowledged the dilemma of potentially losing an appeal, but ward councillor Matt Barnes welcomed the refusal, calling it "the wrong place."

North Herts will honour fallen heroes with a Remembrance Day parade on Sunday, 9 November. The procession begins at Broadway Gardens at 10:30am, proceeding along Broadway to the War Memorial on Station Place. A service will run from 10:45-11:20am, featuring the traditional two-minute silence at 11:00am. Remembrance Sunday falls closest to Armistice Day (11 November), marking the 1918 agreement that ended World War I fighting.

North Herts men are encouraged to grow moustaches for Movember 2025, raising awareness for men's mental health. Participants can grow facial hair, move for mental health, host events, or create their own initiatives to spark conversations about wellbeing.

Learn more: https://us.movember.com/

North Herts Council is seeking public feedback on polling districts and stations following this year's Community Governance Review. Residents, community groups, and accessibility experts can comment on polling station locations and district boundaries until 30 November 2025. Approved changes will be implemented for May 2026 parish elections.

Learn more: https://www.north-herts.gov.uk/.../north-herts-council...

North Herts has launched the Skills Hub, an online platform offering free training and courses for residents and businesses. Whether seeking employment, changing careers, or developing workplace skills, the hub provides resources for all skill levels and career stages.

Learn more: https://www.north-herts.gov.uk/north-herts-skills-hub

The Causeway in Bishop's Stortford will close to vehicles from 10:30am-12:30pm on Sunday, 9 November, for the Remembrance Sunday Parade and Service. Pedestrian access will be maintained throughout the closure, and free parking is available at Northgate End Car Park.

Community leaders, councillors, and residents gathered outside St Mary's School in Cheshunt to commemorate the 81st anniversary of the Liberator Memorial. The ceremony honoured 10 American servicemen who died when their Liberator bomber crashed on 12 August 1944. Returning from a European mission, the crew deliberately steered the failing aircraft into an open field, avoiding the populated area in a selfless act of courage. Attendees laid wreaths and reflected on the servicemen's ultimate sacrifice. The memorial serves as a poignant reminder of the bravery that shaped history, with the crash site now a permanent tribute to those who gave everything for freedom during World War II.

A Conservative party disciplinary panel has dismissed bullying complaints against Broxbourne councillor Alexander Curtis, expelled from his party's council group this summer. The panel, chaired by former minister Michael Tomlinson, investigated seven allegations but concluded findings didn't "amount to bullying or harassment." While suggesting Curtis should use "a more respectful tone," the panel found conduct didn't fall "below minimum standards expected." Councillor Curtis stated the investigation "cleared me on every single ground." He continues serving as Conservative councillor on Broxbourne Borough and Hertfordshire County councils, though listed as 'Conservative (Unaligned).' Council leader Corina Gander declined further comment.

Welwyn Hatfield hosts Purple Tuesday on 4 November from 10:30am-2:30pm at Howard Centre, Welwyn Garden City. The event celebrates disabled customers with informative stalls from local organisations including police, colleges, and accessibility groups. Performances by Purple All Stars (11:30am) and Electric Umbrella (1pm) will feature alongside practical accessibility tips for businesses.

Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council is consulting residents on creating a new Town Council for Welwyn Garden City. With government plans to replace county and district councils with unitary authorities, officials are exploring whether a town council would benefit local residents. The consultation closes 30 November.

Learn more: https://orlo.uk/jhqjv
Share your views: https://orlo.uk/eumk6

Reform UK secured its first Stevenage Borough Council seat after Rob Henry won Roebuck ward with 513 votes (39.2%) on Thursday, 30 October. Labour's Thea Pendlebury received 353 votes (26.9%). Councillor Henry joins Mason Humberstone, who defected from Labour last month, forming a two-member Reform group. The by-election followed Labour councillor Anne Wells's health-related resignation. Henry expressed being "absolutely thrilled," promising to serve constituents diligently. Labour leader Richard Henry noted his party outperformed national polling, while MP Kevin Bonavia attributed results to impatience for change. The council now comprises 30 Labour, six Liberal Democrat, two Reform UK, and one Conservative councillor.

Stevenage Borough Council invites residents to a free fireworks display on Wednesday, 5 November, at Fairlands Valley Park. Gates open at 6:30pm with the display beginning at 7:30pm. Hot food and refreshments will be available throughout the evening.

Learn more: https://www.stevenage.gov.uk/news.../events/firework-display

Professional football freestyler Jay Rosa electrified crowds at Stevenage FC's fixture against Bradford City on Saturday, 25 October, performing outside the Lamex Stadium and during half-time. Rosa is touring every English Football League stadium to raise mental health awareness and funds for Mind Charity. Launched in January 2023, his ambitious tour has reached over 50 stadiums including Goodison Park and Bramall Lane, entertaining crowds up to 50,000. With 100,000+ social media followers, Rosa uses his platform to encourage open conversations about mental wellbeing in football. "This tour is about connection and reminding people they're not alone," he said.

Follow Jay's journey: @jayrosa1_ on social media

Watford's annual Cassiobury Fireworks on Saturday drew huge crowds for a dazzling display lighting up the town skyline. The event raised funds for local charities, supported by volunteers from Lions Club of Watford and Rotary Club. Organizers thanked attendees for their generous donations.

Whippendell Wood now features Watford's first purpose-built mountain bike trail, created in partnership with Bike Park Chilterns CIC. The £23,000 Watford Neighbourhood Grant-funded project offers free access for all abilities, featuring natural gravel berms, clear signage, and wildlife-friendly design. The trail starts near Lime Avenue.

Learn more: whippytrails.com

Watford will honour armed forces past and present at a Remembrance service on Sunday, 9 November, at the Peace Memorial outside Town Hall. The 3pm ceremony includes two-minute silence, wreath-laying by Royal British Legion, and readings by Mayor Peter Taylor and Chairman Councillor Favour Ezeifedi. The Lord Lieutenant of Hertfordshire will attend.

Support the Poppy Appeal: www.britishlegion.org.uk

Watford's Christmas celebrations include Winterfest and Christmas Market Lates (15 November), Jack and the Beanstalk at Palace Theatre (29 November-4 January), and various shows at Watford Colosseum and Pump House throughout December.

Dacorum Borough Council is reviewing its Housing Allocations Policy and seeks resident feedback through a short survey. The consultation aims to create a fair and inclusive policy reflecting community priorities. Residents can share views on proposed changes until the survey closes.

Take the survey: https://orlo.uk/bA0sd

St Albans Museum + Gallery and Verulamium Museum are hosting a diverse November programme celebrating culture, creativity and heritage. Highlights include HorrorFest on 8 November, offering behind-the-scenes horror film prosthetics insights as part of the Being Human Festival. A talk on spy princess Noor Inayat Khan follows on 12 November. Verulamium Museum presents an adult Mosaic Masterclass on 8 November (£70), while families can enjoy weekly Messy Monday Mornings and Sunday Crafternoons. The programme concludes with Spooky Stories at Sopwell Ruins on 9 November—a unique storytelling performance exploring magic, myth and legend for ages 8+. Most events require advance booking, with many free or modestly priced options available.

Three Rivers seniors are welcome at the Seniors Forum Remembrance Day afternoon tea and quiz on Thursday, 6 November, at 2:30pm at Rickmansworth School. Residents must register by emailing [email protected] to secure their place.

Watersmeet hosts its Christmas Market on Saturday, 8 November, from 10:30am-3pm with free entry. Festive activities include live music, carollers, Santa's Grotto, seasonal food, and gift stalls. The family-friendly event offers the perfect start to Christmas celebrations.

Find out more: https://orlo.uk/ChristmasMarket_19RqX

Council Leader Stephen Giles-Medhurst OBE and Chair Stephen King joined over 500 supporters at Oxhey Jets' Annual Remembrance Match honouring fallen heroes Tom Lake, Tom Sawyer, and all service members. The Jets faced the Royal Marines in a tribute showcasing respect, unity, and community spirit.

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Editor-in-chief | Emeka Ogbonnaya

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