Following recent media coverage regarding Victoria Street, we want to reassure businesses that no decisions have been made regarding future changes to the street.

Following an initial public engagement exercise in 2024, Hertfordshire County Council established a temporary Victoria Street user working group comprising representatives from a range of local interests to help explore challenges, opportunities and possible ideas for Victoria Street. Membership of the steering group was determined by Hertfordshire County Council and was intended to bring together a range of community perspectives. The user group’s work has now concluded and no recommendations have been formally adopted.

Throughout the process, HCC made it clear that concepts discussed by the group were intended to stimulate discussion and test ideas, rather than represent final proposals.
BID’s representative on the group consistently highlighted issues that matter to businesses, including customer access, deliveries, servicing, parking provision, wayfinding, waste collection and maintaining a successful trading environment. These points formed part of wider discussions involving a broad range of community interests and viewpoints.

We recognise that recent coverage has raised concerns amongst businesses regarding access, traffic flow and the potential impact of future changes. These are important issues and we know they will be a priority for many businesses when proposals are brought forward.

Victoria Street is a complex and important part of the city centre, serving businesses, residents, visitors and commuters. Any future proposals will need to carefully balance these different needs while supporting a vibrant and successful city centre economy.

The next stage of the project will be a formal public consultation, expected later this year. This consultation will provide businesses, residents and visitors with the opportunity to review proposed options and provide feedback before any decisions are taken.

BID’s role will be to support and encourage business engagement throughout this process, ensuring that the views of businesses across Victoria Street and the wider city centre are heard and understood.

We welcome a wide range of views and encourage all businesses to participate when the consultation opens