Ahead of its meeting planned for 2 September, Reed Parish Council has published its latest update covering developments affecting the village.
Local government reorganisation will place Reed within a new East Hertfordshire and Broxbourne unitary authority. Elections are expected in May 2027, followed by a year of “shadow” arrangements before the new authority formally replaces the existing councils in April 2028.
North Herts Council has not yet published the initial list of sites submitted for consideration as part of its Local Plan review. This first list is expected to include speculative proposals as well as potentially suitable development sites. The more important, filtered list is due in October and will be examined carefully by the Parish Council.
Three new benches have been installed around the village, with a fourth soon to be placed beside the cricket pitch. This will be a memorial to former parish councillor Peter Lawrence, whose work helped to keep Reed looking its best. The bench has been donated by his daughter, Claire, with the Parish Council funding its installation.
Maintenance work has included clearing the ditch beside the village green on Church Lane. Councillors have also continued watering the five young fruit trees planted beside the green during the prolonged hot and dry weather.
The open event at The Cabinet on 11 July attracted an excellent turnout and gave residents an opportunity to meet the new owner and share their ideas. The Parish Council looks forward to seeing his plans and working with him towards the pub’s restoration as a valued village asset.
Finally, preparations are under way for Reed’s annual bonfire and fireworks evening on Saturday 7 November. Requests for volunteers and suitable bonfire wood will be issued nearer the time. Please do not bring wood to the village green until the collection arrangements have been announced.
