Happy Monday, 16th December!

We’re officially in the final stretch before Christmas! Whether you’re all set with your shopping or still in the ‘last-minute rush’ camp, there’s plenty to talk about this week.

In today’s edition, we’ll dive into the growing anticipation for the pending White Paper on devolution, which has everyone speculating. We’ll also share some exciting updates from the final council cabinet meeting of the year, including news about funds being released for local projects.

Plus, with Royal Mail issuing delivery warnings, we’ve got the key posting dates to help ensure your festive mail arrives on time.

A warm welcome to all our new subscribers—welcome to the Broxtown family! Got feedback or ideas? Drop us a line; we’re here to make Broxtown your favourite local read. You can share this link to others, so they can join us. https://broxtown.beehiiv.com/subscribe

Let’s get started! 💌

MEME of THE DAY

News at a Glance

Anticipation Grows as White Paper on Devolution Remains Unpublished

The Government’s long-anticipated Devolution White Paper remains unpublished as the year draws to a close, leaving Broxbourne residents and local officials in a state of speculation. With the promise of its release by the end of 2024, many are wondering when the document will arrive and what it will mean for the future of local governance in Hertfordshire.

Anxiety and Uncertainty Among Residents

The delay has sparked a mix of anxiety and curiosity among Broxbourne residents. With potential changes to local governance on the horizon, questions about how the reforms might affect their lives remain unanswered. Some fear the abolition of borough and district councils, while others are hopeful the White Paper might grant more power and resources to local authorities.

“It’s unsettling not knowing what’s coming,” said one local resident. “Will we have less say in our community decisions, or will this bring more opportunities for local improvements?”

Broxbourne Council’s Position

Broxbourne Borough Council has stated it is ready to respond to the White Paper once it is published, working to ensure any changes serve the best interests of residents and businesses. The Council is also open to discussions with Government officials, MPs, and Ministers about the potential benefits of devolution.

However, the Council has made its opposition to certain reforms clear, particularly the possibility of abolishing district and borough councils. In a recent statement, the Council highlighted concerns about moving decision-making further away from local residents:

“The abolition of district and borough councils would have significant adverse effects, moving local decision-making and service delivery further away from local residents and the communities they live in.”

Speculation About Timing

Despite the absence of an official release date, rumors suggest the White Paper could be published before Christmas or shortly afterward. With many offices closing for the holidays and people heading away, the timing of the release may reflect the Government’s intent to meet its year-end commitment.

Some local leaders, however, have expressed frustration with the delay, noting the importance of early and open discussions on the proposals. “The uncertainty is not helpful,” one councillor remarked. “We need clarity to plan for the future and ensure residents’ needs are met.”

What’s Next for Broxbourne?

Until the White Paper is published, much remains uncertain. Speculative scenarios suggest various paths, from increased local powers to significant restructuring of local councils. The year ahead will undoubtedly bring challenges and opportunities for Broxbourne as the Government’s vision for devolution becomes clearer.

As the borough looks to 2025, residents and officials alike remain united in their commitment to safeguarding local voices and ensuring the best outcomes for the community.

Broxtown will continue to provide updates as new developments unfold.

Funds Allocated to Local Projects Following Cabinet Meeting

At the Cabinet meeting held on Tuesday, 10th December 2024, Broxbourne Borough Council approved the allocation of S106 funding to several local projects designed to benefit the community. These funds, collected from developers to support infrastructure and community needs, will be used to improve safety, enhance public spaces, and provide youth programs across the borough.

Key Projects Approved:

• New River Path Maintenance (£163,500): Funds will be used over three years to repair solar lights, signage, and surface damage, as well as to clear overgrown vegetation. This aims to keep the path safe and accessible for walkers and cyclists, promoting sustainable travel.

• Whit Hern Park Upgrades (£24,209): Improvements include new park furniture, habitat enhancements like bird boxes and wildflowers, and playful footpath markings for children. These changes will enhance biodiversity and encourage active lifestyles.

• Road Safety Education (£20,000): A three-year program will support Crucial Crew, a safety education initiative for Year 6 pupils, and a road safety poster competition for primary schools in Goffs Oak and West Cheshunt.

• School Traffic Safety Statues (£3,000): Childlike statues will be installed near schools to reduce illegal parking and improve student safety in Goffs Oak and West Cheshunt.

• Youth Services (£2,524): Funds will support a cycling camp during February half-term for children aged 5–12 and a self-defense course for teenage boys, building on the success of similar programs for girls.

Why It Matters

These projects align with the Council’s priorities for sustainability, safety, and community well-being. They are fully funded by S106 contributions, meaning no extra cost to residents.

The Council emphasized that these initiatives reflect the commitment to using developer contributions to directly benefit the community, ensuring safer streets, greener spaces, and better services for young people.

Stay tuned for updates as these projects roll out across Broxbourne.

🎄 The Final Countdown to Christmas Begins! 🎄

It’s the last stretch before Christmas, and if you’re planning to send cards or parcels to loved ones, time is running out! According to Royal Mail, here are the key dates to guarantee delivery by 25 December:

📮 Wednesday, 18 December: 2nd Class and 2nd Class Signed For
📮 Friday, 20 December: 1st Class, 1st Class Signed For, and Royal Mail Tracked 48®
📮 Saturday, 21 December: Royal Mail Tracked 24®
📮 Monday, 23 December: Special Delivery Guaranteed®

Make sure to send your post as early as possible to beat the holiday rush and ensure your festive cheer arrives on time!

✨ Stay tuned for more updates and tips to help you prepare for the holiday season! 🎅

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN TOWN

🌟 Nominate Your Local Hero for the 2025 Borough of Broxbourne Awards! 🌟

Do you know someone in the Broxbourne community who has gone above and beyond to make a difference? Now’s the time to give them the recognition they deserve!

Broxbourne Council is thrilled to announce that nominations for the 2025 Borough of Broxbourne (BOB) Awards are officially open! 🏆

These awards celebrate the outstanding achievements of individuals and groups who dedicate their time, energy, and heart to helping others and making our community a better place.

Important Dates:

• Nominations Close: 31 January 2025

• Awards Ceremony: Thursday, 6 March 2025

Don’t miss this chance to honor your local heroes! Nominate someone today and let their incredible contributions shine.

🎭 It’s Panto Season in Broxbourne! ❄️✨

The stage is set, the cast is shining, and the magic is in the air! This festive period, join us for an unforgettable performance of #SleepingBeauty, guaranteed to delight audiences of all ages.

🎉 Don’t miss the show!
📅 Running until: 30 December
📍 Where: THE SPOTLIGHT HODDESDON

Gather your family and friends, and let the panto magic bring laughter, joy, and festive cheer to your holiday season. Tickets are selling fast, so don’t wait—book yours today!

Monday Weather

11°C 🌡️ 5°C | ☁️ Light cloud and a gentle breeze | ☀️ Sunrise 08:02 Sunset 15:51

Football

Arsenal 0 | 0 Everton

Arsenal missed the chance to close the gap on Premier League leaders Liverpool after a goalless draw against Everton at the Emirates Stadium. Despite dominating possession (76%) and registering 13 shots, Mikel Arteta's side couldn't break down Everton's resolute defense.

Liverpool's earlier 2-2 draw with Fulham offered Arsenal an opportunity to gain ground, but the Gunners remain third, six points behind the leaders, having played one game more.

Everton's best chance came early when Abdoulaye Doucoure hesitated in front of goal, allowing Gabriel to block his strike. Arsenal created few clear-cut chances, with Jordan Pickford denying Martin Odegaard and making a stunning save against Bukayo Saka in the second half. Despite their efforts, the winning goal eluded Arsenal.

Southampton 0 | 5 Tottenham

Tottenham delivered a stunning 5-0 first-half performance at St Mary’s Stadium, piling pressure on struggling Southampton boss Russell Martin. James Maddison scored just 40 seconds in, followed by goals from Son Heung-min, Dejan Kulusevski, Pape Sarr, and a brilliant second strike from Maddison deep into stoppage time.

Southampton's defensive struggles were evident, prompting Martin to switch formations and substitute a distraught Kamaldeen Sulemana after conceding the third goal. However, the changes did little to stem Tottenham’s relentless attack.

The second half saw little action, with Southampton's Matheus Fernandes having a late goal disallowed for offside. Spurs, now 10th in the Premier League, delighted their fans, while Southampton remains rooted to the bottom, nine points from safety and destined to be bottom at Christmas.

Broxtown referral program

While sharing Broxtown with your friends is a huge favour to us, we want to make sure your efforts don’t go unnoticed. To show our appreciation, we have some special rewards lined up for those who go above and beyond in helping us grow! 🏆🌟

• Get 3 friends or family to sign up and we will give you a birthday shout out.

• Get 5 folks to join and we will give you and your best mate a birthday shout out

• Get 15 and we’ll pay for your dinner with a friend at a secret restaurant in the Borough.

• Get 100 and I’ll give you a free Broxtown branded hoodie (£65 value).

• And if you somehow get 1,000 I will buy you a Spa Weekend for you and your best friend anywhere in Hertfordshire.

Thanks for Reading—See You Tomorrow!

Have questions or suggestions to improve our newsletter? Got a story to share? Email us at [email protected].

Interested in advertising with us? Drop us a line at the same email address.

If someone forwarded this email to you, be sure to thank them—and don’t miss out next time! Subscribe here.

Wishing you a fantastic rest of your day!

Cheers,
The Broxtown Team