Good morning and happy Tuesday,

It seems Broxtown’s space theme has taken off—literally. We kicked things off with our space-themed T-shirts (Powered by Stories, Rooted in Broxbourne), and now even Jeff Bezos is joining in. Blue Origin just launched an all-women crew into space for 11 minutes—an incredible milestone for space tourism.

The Sun finally gives way to rain. It was starting to feel too suspicious. Good weather over a 2 week period was unheard of. May it goes downhill from here. I hope not.

Yesterday was World Quantum Day, a global celebration of quantum science and technology. We'd love to hear from anyone in Broxbourne who works in or understands quantum computing. If that’s you, get in touch—we're curious.

Over the weekend, I was out and about at the Hoddesdon Spring events and the clock mascot, vintage cars, live performances and dance shows proved to be real highlights. I’m looking forward to Waltham Cross on the 17th—let me know if you’ll be there too. And as always, if you're hosting an event worth sharing, just reply to this email and tell us about it.

In today’s edition:

• The Council launches a new campaign to tackle poor parking

• Traffic disruption continues as Waltham Cross regeneration progresses

• With county elections approaching, key deadlines are passing—and others are looming

• Our latest round-up of Easter events happening across the borough

There’s plenty more inside, so keep reading to the end.

A warm welcome to all our new subscribers—thank you for joining the Broxtown community. Got feedback or something to share? We’d love to hear from you. Let’s keep building Broxtown into your go-to source for everything local.

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News at a Glance

🚗 Broxbourne Borough Cracks Down on Problem Parking

Broxbourne Borough Council has issued a notice to drivers following a rise in illegal and inconsiderate parking across the borough — including cars blocking driveways, pavements, and disabled access paths.

The council is urging residents not to park on pavements or grass verges, as this damages public spaces and creates serious accessibility issues for pedestrians, wheelchair users, and parents with pushchairs.

A recent social media campaign by the council sparked a wave of support from locals. One resident commented, “Parking should not be on kerbs and footpaths!! It’s a bloody joke near Russell’s Ride area…” Another added, “Why should I be walking in the road due to selfish, irresponsible drivers?”

🚫 Resident Reminder:

• Do not block footpaths or access points

• Do not park on grass verges — it causes damage and expensive repairs

• Be considerate of those who need full access to our shared public spaces

As complaints grow, should repeat parking violations carry a flat £100 fine?
Let us know what you think.

🚧 Disruption at Waltham Cross Roundabout Amid Ongoing Regeneration Works

There has been significant disruption at the Waltham Cross roundabout since the weekend, as road closures continue to impact traffic in the area. The chaos has been widely felt by drivers, though the timing of the works during the school holidays has helped ease some pressure on the roads.

The ongoing closures are part of the Waltham Cross regeneration programme, which promises long-term improvements to the town’s infrastructure and public spaces. Broxbourne Borough Council has issued a public noticeurging residents to remain patient and to plan ahead while essential works continue.

Despite the disruption, public access to Eleanor Cross Road Car Park remains open, and both Pavilions and Eleanor Cross Road Car Parks are operating as usual.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed and follow any posted diversions.

📍 More information about the project can be found here:

FROM COUNTY COUNCIL

🗳️ Election Countdown: Key Deadlines as Hertfordshire Heads to the Polls

The race to the Hertfordshire County Council elections on Thursday 1 May is well underway. The deadline to register to vote was Friday 11 April, and the postal vote application deadline closed at 5pm on Monday 14 April.

But there are still important dates to keep in mind:

📅 Wednesday 23 April – Final Day for:

• Applying for a Voter Authority Certificate or Anonymous Elector’s Document

• Applying to vote by proxy
  🕔 Deadline: 5PM
  📍 Submit via Broxbourne Borough Council or apply online.

📅 Thursday 1 May – Election Day

• Final deadline for emergency proxy vote applications
  🕔 Deadline: 5PM
  📍 Submit via Broxbourne Borough Council Offices

🔗 Election Notices & Full Details:
Notice of Election – Broxbourne (PDF)

🔗 List of Nominated Candidates:
Click here

With key dates approaching, it’s time to get prepared and make your voice heard at the ballot box.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Hertfordshire Council Encourages Residents to Explore Fostering Opportunities

Hertfordshire County Council is inviting residents to learn how they can change careers, make a real difference, and become foster carers — all from the comfort of home.

An online information event will be held on Wednesday, 23 April, from 7 PM to 8:30 PM, offering insights into the rewarding world of fostering.

Participants will hear first-hand stories from current foster carers, members of the fostering team, and even a care leaver, offering a powerful look into the positive impact fostering can have.

💻 Book your place: https://orlo.uk/ghi9W
📞 Or call: 0800 917 0925

This session is perfect for anyone curious about fostering, looking to start a new chapter, or eager to support vulnerable children in Hertfordshire.

🇬🇧 Hertfordshire Set to Mark 80 Years Since VE & VJ Day

2025 marks 80 years since VE Day (8 May) and VJ Day (15 August), and boroughs across Hertfordshire — from Cheshunt in Broxbourne to Stevenage — are preparing to commemorate the milestone.

Councils are encouraging communities to come together with street parties and local events, honouring those who served and celebrating peace. Residents can find planning support, guidance, and event resources online.

📍 Start planning your celebration:

MEME of The Day

UPCOMING EVENTS

🐣 Easter Fayre – Waltham Cross

Join the Easter Fayre on Thursday 17 April, 10am–5pm at Waltham Cross Town Centre for a fun-filled day of free family activities!

Enjoy:

• 🌼 Easter Trail

• 🥚 Easter Egg Hunt

• 🎭 Aladdin Pantomime (3 showings)

• 🎶 Live music & local stalls

📧 More info: [email protected]
Organised by Love Waltham Cross & Borough of Broxbourne

Start Your Business Without Stress at Step2Skills!

Thinking of starting your own business but not sure where to begin? Don’t worry — #Step2Skills has you covered!

Join this free, confidence-boosting course designed to help you take those first steps into self-employment with clarity and ease. Whether you have an idea or are still exploring options, this session is packed with practical tips and guidance.

What you’ll learn:
💡 How to spot a successful business idea
📝 Writing a simple business plan
💰 Managing finances and budgeting
🏢 Choosing the right business ownership type
🎯 Building your entrepreneurial skills

This course is ideal for beginners and anyone dreaming of launching their own venture without the overwhelm.

👉 Sign up today on the Step2Skills website and take the first step toward a stronger, more mindful you.

🤝 Love Hoddesdon BID Networking Breakfast

Connect with local businesses over coffee and conversation at this informal networking event hosted by Love Hoddesdon BID. A great way to start your day, build local links, and discover opportunities within the Hoddesdon business community.

📅 Date: Thursday 17 April 2025
🕗 Time: 8:00 – 9:30 AM
📍 Location: Stansborough's Conservatory Club, Conduit Lane, Hoddesdon EN11 8EP
🔗 Book to attend

Cheshunt Business Networking Meeting

Meet, mingle, and make new business connections at this friendly networking session for local businesses in and around Cheshunt, hosted at Theobalds Enterprise Centre.

📅 Date: Monday 28 April 2025
🕥 Time: 10:30 AM – 12:00 noon
📍 Location: Theobalds Enterprise Centre, Cheshunt EN8 8YD
🔗 Register to attend

Waltham Cross Town Centre Business Forum

📅 Date: Monday, 29 April 2025
🕒 Time: 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
📍 Community Hub, Unit 59, Pavilion Shopping Centre, High Street, Waltham Cross
🎟️ Free – Booking required

Local business owners are invited to join the Waltham Cross Town Centre Business Forum — a great opportunity to:

💬 Get the latest updates on town centre regeneration
🤝 Network with other local businesses
📢 Stay informed and have your say on what’s happening in Waltham Cross

Whether you're established or just starting out, this is your chance to connect and collaborate.

👉 Book your place here: https://ow.ly/lHtP50Vncg1

Tuesday Weather ☀️ 

Tuesday

17°C 🌡️ 7°C | ⛈️ Thundery showers and a gentle breeze | ☀️ Sunrise 06:05 Sunset 19:57

COMMUNITY UPDATE

🧩 The White Swan Jigsaw Puzzle Is Looking Great!

Our limited-edition jigsaw puzzle featuring the iconic White Swan is nearly ready — and it’s looking fantastic!

As we prepare to send it to print by the end of the month, we’re inviting local businesses and community supportersto become sponsors. This is a unique opportunity to have your name or brand printed on the puzzle board itself and be part of a one-of-a-kind community keepsake.

Interested in supporting this project? Get in touch today to reserve your spot!

WORD OF THE DAY

PERTAIN

Today’s Word of the Day is PERTAIN means to be related to, connected with, or relevant to something. It is often used to show a relationship or association with a particular subject or topic.

Usage:

• It usually appears with the preposition “to”, forming “pertain to.”

• It can be used in both formal and everyday contexts.

• The rules pertain to all employees, regardless of their position.

• His questions did not pertain to the topic of discussion.

• The documents pertain to the property sale agreement.

Tip: Think of “pertain” as linking something to its subject or context, similar to “relate to” or “concern.”

Get a Birthday Shoutout When Your Refer Us

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 Friday!

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Wishing you a fantastic rest of your day!

Cheers,
Editor-in-chief | Emeka Ogbonnaya

P.S. Want to sponsor our newsletter? Email us at [email protected]