Good Morning!

It’s Wednesday, 18th December! 🎄With just a week to go until Christmas, Santa will soon be making his rounds in Broxbourne, leaving presents under the tree. Hope you’ve been good 😆 If you’re still holding out for some last-minute shopping, be warned—the queues are growing longer and the tills busier! Good luck as you brave the final festive rush.

Today, we bring you our key observations following yesterday’s release of the Devolution White Paper—a topic that’s sparked reactions across the board, from political leaders to local residents. We even let our AI Assistant take a crack at generating potential options for Hertfordshire and its 10 districts. Some of the results might surprise you!

To ensure your voice is heard in this conversation, we’ve prepared a quick survey for you. Your input will help highlight the community’s concerns and preferences, providing valuable insight for the decision-makers shaping our future.

So, without further ado—let’s dive in!

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. 🎄✨ 💌

PS - If you find this newsletter valuable, please consider forwarding it to your friends. New to the Broxtown? Sign-up for free.

News at a Glance

The Devolution White Paper: Observing the Impact

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The release of the Devolution White Paper has sparked conversations at every level of governance—from local borough councils all the way to Westminster. The news has been impossible to ignore, as it quickly became the focal point for both policymakers and residents alike.

In Hertfordshire, where the two-tier local government system has been in place for decades, the ripple effect has been particularly strong. Our local MP has been vocal, arguing that he will oppose any proposal for a unitary authority in Hertfordshire with a population of 1.2 million. The same logic was applied by the Broxbourne Borough leadership as he argued that removing local councils in favour of a centralised authority would take governance further away from the communities it serves.

Beyond the corridors of power, the White Paper has also stirred concern among residents. Many feel these discussions are happening without their input. One frustrated resident remarked, “We are now in an authoritarian system!” While this may be an exaggeration, it reflects a broader sentiment: the government appears to be making far-reaching changes with limited public consultation.

The impact of this announcement is still unfolding, and the debates are far from over. Will Hertfordshire see the creation of one county-wide council? Will districts merge into larger unitary authorities to meet population thresholds? Or will a Combined County Authority model allow for collaboration without structural upheaval?

For now, residents and local leaders alike watch with anticipation, eager to see how these proposals evolve. One thing is clear: the path ahead will determine not just how services are delivered but also how communities feel represented in their governance.

What happens next remains to be seen. Make sure you are subscribed to our newsletter, so you don’t miss a thing. Broxtown is the private local news champion for Broxbourne.

AI Proposals for Hertfordshire’s Local Government Shake-Up

With speculation running high about what the future of local government could look like, we turned to our trusty AI assistant to explore some workable proposals tailored to Hertfordshire and Broxbourne. Using the criteria outlined in the government’s recent White Paper, our AI buddy crunched the details and delivered a few possible options.

Before diving into these proposals, it’s important to highlight the key direction set out in the White Paper: councils may need to transition to larger unitary authorities—single councils responsible for managing all local services, such as housing, education, and transport. This would mark a significant shift from Hertfordshire’s current two-tier system, which consists of one county council and ten district and borough councils.

So, what could change? Here’s what our little AI agent has come up with.

Option 1: One Council for All of Hertfordshire

One simple solution would be to merge the entire county into a single unitary authority. This would mean just one council managing everything across Hertfordshire. It could be more efficient and reduce costs, but some residents might worry about losing that "local touch" and representation. Our MP and the Council Leader has expressed their disapproval to. Would they have a change of heart when compared with other options. who knows.

Option 2: Merging District Councils into Larger Groups

If one county-wide council (option 1) feels too big, another option is to merge district and borough councils into larger groups that meet the government's minimum 500,000 population threshold. Here’s what it could look like:

1. West Hertfordshire Unitary Authority

   • Combining Dacorum, St Albans, Watford, and Three Rivers (~523,000 residents).

2. South-Central Hertfordshire Unitary Authority

   • Joining Welwyn Hatfield, Hertsmere, Broxbourne, and Stevenage (~531,000 residents).

3. North-East Hertfordshire Unitary Authority

   • Grouping East Hertfordshire and North Hertfordshire (~548,000 residents, with adjustments to nearby areas).

These groupings would keep things more regional, helping councils stay close to the communities they serve while still meeting the government’s requirements.

Option 3: Keeping Things as They Are (With a Combined Authority)

Alternatively, instead of merging councils, Hertfordshire could create a Combined County Authority (CCA). This model keeps all district councils in place while working together with the county council on “big picture” decisions, like transport and economic development. It’s less disruptive but may not save as much money or streamline services.

What’s Next?

The options are still being discussed, and no decisions have been made. Residents' opinions will play a key role in shaping Hertfordshire’s future, ensuring any changes work for the people who live and work here.

Have Your Say: What’s your preferred option? A single county council, merged districts, or keeping things as they are with better collaboration? Complete the survey below. Local voices matter.

County Councils Network Welcomes Devolution White Paper

The County Councils Network (CCN), a body representing 36 county authorities in England, has welcomed the government’s Devolution White Paper, which sets out plans for local government reform. The CCN advocates for counties, ensuring that rural and large regional areas have a voice in shaping policies that impact local governance and services.

Key highlights of the White Paper include:

• Combined County Authorities (CCAs): Supported as a flexible option for rural areas alongside mayoral devolution.

• Unitary Authorities: Proposed councils must serve populations of at least 500,000 to ensure financial sustainability. CCN warns against smaller, unsustainable units.

• Strategic Planning Powers: Reintroduced to align housing delivery with essential infrastructure like schools and transport.

The CCN emphasized the need for evidence-based decisions, clear roles, and adequate funding to ensure successful implementation. They will work closely with the government to refine these proposals and balance growth with quality local services.

Reforms are underway, with significant changes expected in the coming months.

 Love Cheshunt Christmas Shop Window Competition 

🌟 Win £50 to spend in a Cheshunt shop of your choice! 🌟

Our beloved Christmas Shop Window Competition is back, and we need your vote!

🎁 How to Enter:

• Vote for your favorite Christmas shop window in Cheshunt.

• You’ll automatically be entered into a prize draw to win £50 to spend in any Cheshunt shop!

🏆 For the Shops:
The winning shop will receive £50 and the prestigious Love Cheshunt Trophy!

📩 Vote Now:
Cast your vote via the link in our bio.

📝 Details:

• One vote per person.

• Terms and conditions: Available on our website via the voting link.

Don’t miss your chance to spread holiday cheer and win big! 🎅🎄

Food Finds

Join Us for an Unforgettable Christmas Eve at DeJaVu!

This Christmas Eve, Dejavu is throwing a party you won’t want to miss! ✨

🎶 Live Music by the Incredible Leona
🍽️ A 3-Course Meal You’ll Be Dreaming About All Christmas Day

Starters: A festive trio featuring meat samosas, onion bhajis, and special chicken wings.
Mains: Choose any main, side, and naan or rice from our A La Carte menu. Vegetarian options are available!

All this for just £29.95 per person!

📞 Book your table now: 01992 636 325 / 01992 626 229
(£10pp non-refundable deposit required to secure your spot.)

📍 19 High St, Cheshunt, EN8 0BX

Let’s make this Christmas Eve a night to remember. 🎉 🎅 

We can’t wait to celebrate with you!

UPCOMING EVENTS

Celebrate Christmas in Style at Cleo's Kitchen! 

Forks up, foodies—it’s Christmas! 🍴✨

Join us for a festive dining experience that will make your holiday season even more magical. Cleo’s Kitchen is hosting a special Christmas event filled with delicious food, good vibes, and unforgettable memories!

📍 Where: Cleo’s Bites Kitchen at The Laura Trott Leisure Centre
📅 When: December 18th & 19th, 2024 (TODAY & Tomorrow)
⏰ Time: 12:30 PM - 3:00 PM

🎅 What’s on the Menu?
Enjoy an indulgent 2 or 3-course meal for just £20! Whether you're craving festive classics or our signature dishes, there’s something to delight every palate.

✨ Vegetarian options are available to ensure no one misses out on the joy. DM us for the full menu!

🔥 How to Book:
Call to secure your spot on the guestlist! Spaces are filling fast, so don’t wait—Santa isn’t the only one feasting this season.

Come hungry and leave happy! Cleo’s Kitchen is ready to make your Christmas celebration extra special. 🎉🎄

📞 For inquiries, contact us today! Let’s celebrate the holiday spirit with great food and great company. Click on the button to learn more.

Countdown to the Hoddesdon New Year Street Fair!

Only 2 weeks to go until Hoddesdon Town Centre transforms into a festive wonderland for the New Year Street Fair!

📅 When: Thursday, 28th December – Tuesday, 2nd January
📍 Where: Hoddesdon Town Centre

🎢 What’s in store?
Thrilling rides like the Super Trooper and Miami, fun activities, and festive vibes for the whole family.

✨ Bring your loved ones and make magical memories as we welcome the new year together!

📩 Let us know you’re coming! RSVP now and join the celebration. Don’t miss this exciting end-of-year extravaganza! 🎡🎆

🎉 Crossover ‘25: A Night of Worship & Celebration

📅 New Year’s Eve
📍 Copper Box Arena, Stratford, London, E20 3HB
🕰️ Doors Open: 8:30 PM

Join Jubilee Church London for their biggest Crossover Service yet! Known for packing out venues like Cineworld Enfield, this year’s celebration moves to the Copper Box Arena.

What to Expect:

🎶 Worship & Praise: Powerful worship, heartfelt preaching, and joyful celebration.
💃 Party Atmosphere: Sing, dance, and give thanks as we step into 2025.
🙏 Bold Declaration: Unite with the theme "London is the Lord’s" to celebrate God’s goodness.

Don’t miss this unforgettable night of faith, gratitude, and joy. Start the new year in unity and celebration!

Come and see why London is the Lord’s!

COUNCIL ANNOUNCEMENTS

Important Information: Changes to Waste Collection Dates

If your usual waste collection is scheduled for Monday 23rd, Tuesday 24th, or Wednesday 25th December, please note that your collection date will be brought forward.

To find your exact collection date, click the button:

Recycling Cardboard Waste? ♻️

• Please fold cardboard flat and break it down to a size no bigger than the base of your kerbside box or communal recycling bin.

Thank you for your cooperation and helping us keep collections running smoothly this festive season!

Wednesday Weather

14°C 🌡️ 6°C | ☁️ Gusty winds and light cloud | ☀️ Sunrise 08:03 Sunset 15:51

Word of the Day

DRABBLE

Today’s Word of the Day is DRABBLE - (Verb) To make something wet or dirty by dragging it through mud or water.
Example: "The children drabbled their clothes while playing by the stream."

(Noun, informal) A short piece of writing, typically 100 words long, often used as a creative writing exercise or a literary challenge.
Example: "She wrote a drabble about life in the Broxbourne countryside.".

How to use it:

• Everyday Life: Describing those muddy strolls through Lea Valley Park: "Watch out, or your boots will get drabbled!"

• Creative Side: Encouraging residents to share their short stories about local life: "Submit your 100-word drabble about your favorite spot in Broxbourne, and we’ll feature it in next week’s newsletter!"

Whether you’re dodging puddles or penning mini tales, drabble is a word to keep handy this week!

Submit the Word of the Day by clicking here. 👈️ 

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].

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Wishing you a fantastic rest of your day!

Cheers,
The Broxtown Team