Happy Friday, Broxtown! 🎉

It’s 7th February, a day packed with history! On this day in 1992, the European Union was formed, shaping modern Europe. And in 1976, Joan Bazeley made history as the first woman to referee a men's football match, while Diana Thorne became the first female jockey to win under National Hunt Rules—talk about breaking barriers! 💪🏽🏆

Today, we’re sharing a bittersweet farewell to a piece of our local history that’s closing its doors. But don’t worry—we’ll keep the vibes positive! Plus, we’ve got a round-up of exciting half-term events to get your kids booked in before spaces fill up.

🐶 Dog lovers, last call! Today’s the final day to tell us if you have a dog—we're considering partnering with dog grooming and pet services for exclusive reader discounts, but only if there's enough interest. If you’ve already voted, thank you!

📢 Welcome to our new subscribers! We’re thrilled to have you join the Broxtown community. Got ideas or suggestions? Drop us a message—we love hearing from you! Let’s make Broxtown your ultimate hub for all things local! 🚀

💌 Love this newsletter? Share it with a friend! Use your unique link below and earn rewards for spreading the word. Let’s grow this community together. 💌

News at a Glance

Final Closure of Waltham Cross Homebase: A Farewell to a Local Landmark

Next week, on Saturday, 15th Feb, the Waltham Cross Homebase will close its doors for good, marking the end of an era for the beloved DIY and homeware store in the area. This closure is part of Homebase’s wider restructuring after the company fell into administration in 2024, with 33 more locations set to shut this month.

For residents of Waltham Cross and Cheshunt, this is your last chance to visit the store and pick up souvenirs or final purchases. Once it’s gone, it’s gone—so don’t miss the opportunity to say goodbye to a local staple that has served the community for years.

The closure is a bittersweet moment, as it reflects the challenges faced by high street retailers in recent years. While some Homebase branches have been saved by companies like CDS Superstores (operating as Wilko, The Range, and Homebase), others, including Waltham Cross, were unable to find buyers.

Employees at the affected stores, including Waltham Cross, have been notified of their redundancy and will receive their full pay and benefits during their notice period.

As we bid farewell to this chapter, let’s take a moment to reflect on the memories and services Homebase has provided to Waltham Cross. Whether it’s a final visit to grab a memento or simply to show support, this Saturday will be your last chance.

Don’t wait—visit Waltham Cross Homebase before it’s gone for good.

Stay Informed, Stay Safe: Sign Up for Herts Connected Today!

Broxbourne Borough residents, your safety and awareness matter! Herts Connected is the modern way for the police to keep you updated on crime and safety issues in your neighbourhood—just like the old OWL news updates, but better.

If you haven’t signed up yet, you could be missing out on crucial information about what’s happening right on your doorstep. The police are urging everyone across the borough to join Herts Connected to stay informed, alert, and connected.

For those already signed up, a quiet inbox means your neighbourhood is calm and safe. But if you start receiving frequent updates, it could mean your area is a hotspot—and you’ll be the first to know. The only way to stay in the loop is to sign up now.

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Take a minute to register for Herts Connected and ensure you’re always in the know. Knowledge is power, and staying informed helps keep our community safe and strong.

Police Community Update: Operation Hotspot in Hertfordshire

In January, an impressive 3,333 hours of additional police patrols were carried out across Hertfordshire as part of Operation Hotspot, a project aimed at tackling anti-social behaviour and serious violence in identified hotspot areas.

Launched in May 2024 with £1 million in Government funding, secured by the Police and Crime Commissioner’s Office, Operation Hotspot focuses on increasing police visibility and conducting targeted foot patrols in high-crime areas.

December Highlights:

• 43 additional arrests made

• 100 stop searches conducted

• 4 knives and 1 knuckle duster seized

These efforts are on top of regular policing activities and demonstrate a strong commitment to making Hertfordshire safer.

FROM THE COUNTY COUNCIL

Hertfordshire County Council Elections: May 1st

Hertfordshire is gearing up for the County Council elections on May 1st, with candidates actively campaigning through leaflets, door-to-door outreach, and community meetings. Residents are encouraged to engage, listen to all candidates, and vote confidently.

Meanwhile, elections in several other areas—including East Sussex, Essex, and Surrey—have been delayed for a year to allow council reorganisations. Local Government Secretary Angela Rayner called holding soon-to-be-scrapped elections a "waste of taxpayers' money," but critics argue the move undermines democracy.

At Broxtown, we remain apolitical but are here to help you stay informed. Pay attention to candidates' plans and make your voice count!

Hertfordshire County Council Launches Climate and Sustainability Survey

Hertfordshire County Council (HertsCC) has launched a Sustainability and Climate Change Survey to better understand residents' perspectives on the climate crisis and the council’s efforts to address environmental challenges in the county.

The survey aims to gather valuable insights from the community to shape future sustainability initiatives and ensure local policies reflect the concerns and priorities of Hertfordshire residents.

This is an opportunity for individuals, businesses, and organisations to share their views on pressing climate issues and contribute to shaping Hertfordshire’s environmental strategy.

📢 Have your say and help drive sustainable change in Hertfordshire!

🔗 Complete the survey here: https://orlo.uk/J4NX7

FROM THE COUNCIL

Broxbourne Residents Unite for Renewable Energy with Solar Together Scheme

Broxbourne homeowners are joining forces to invest in renewable energy through the Solar Togethergroup-buying scheme. This initiative offers solar panels, optional battery storage, and EV charge points, as well as retrofit battery storage for those with existing solar panels. The scheme aims to help residents reduce reliance on the national grid and transition to clean energy affordably and hassle-free.

Key features of the scheme include:

• Free registration with no obligation to proceed.

• Competitive pricing through a reverse auction with approved UK suppliers.

• Personalised recommendations based on individual needs.

• Support from help desks and information sessions throughout the process.

Hertfordshire County Council has partnered with iChoosr, experts in sustainable energy, to make the transition seamless.

Broxbourne Council Offers Free E-Cargo Bike Trials

Broxbourne Borough Council is offering sole traders, businesses, and charities the chance to trial an electric cargo bike for free for at least one month.

The Raleigh Pro Cargo bike, with a 250w Yamaha engine and 37-mile range, provides a sustainable and cost-effective alternative for deliveries and transport. Benefits:

✔ Lower costs – Save on fuel, insurance, and maintenance.
✔ Eco-friendly – Reduce pollution and carbon emissions.
✔ Efficient – Ideal for deliveries and carrying equipment.
✔ Health boost – Encourages physical activity.

How to Apply:

Email [email protected] with "E-cargo Bike" in the subject. Priority goes to those replacing a car or van.

🎙️ Don’t Miss This! Councillor Mark Mills-Bishop on Devolution & Local Government Reorganisation 🎙️

The full interview is now available on all major podcast platforms! 📢 In this must-listen episode of Voices of Our Towns, Council Leader Mark Mills-Bishop breaks down what Devolution really means for Broxbourne—and how it could shape the future of our borough. 🏙️

🔊 Why listen?
✔ Straight from the source – Hear directly from one of Broxbourne’s key leaders.
✔ Big changes ahead – Understand how local government reorganisation could impact you.
✔ Your town, your voice – Get informed and be part of the conversation.

🎧 Tune in now! Links below to listen wherever you get your podcasts.

📌 Make sure to subscribe to Voices of Our Towns so you never miss an episode filled with insightful discussions, community updates, and stories that matter. Let’s shape Broxbourne’s future together! 💡

Broxbourne MP Challenges Education Secretary Over SEND Funding

Broxbourne MP Lewis Cocking has challenged the Secretary of State for Education over fair funding for Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) services. During a recent parliamentary session, Cocking stressed the need for adequate funding to ensure SEND pupils receive the support they require.

He highlighted concerns about reduced or discontinued funding, urging the Government to create a fairer system. “Children must access the funding they need to support their education,” Cocking stated.

This intervention reflects growing pressure on the Government to address SEND funding disparities, a critical issue for Broxbourne and beyond.

lewiscockingmp

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Attention Talented Athletes Aged 11-30! 🏆

The Opportunity for Excellence Grant Scheme is here to help you reach your sporting potential!

🏋️ What’s on offer?
Successful applicants receive free memberships to local sports centres, giving you access to:

• State-of-the-art training facilities.

• Professional equipment to boost performance.

• A supportive community for aspiring athletes.

🌟 Who can apply?
Athletes aged 11-30 with exceptional skill and dedication to their sport.

📝 Apply Now!
Don’t miss your chance to take your training to the next level.

👉 Click here to learn more and apply today!

MEME of The Day

UPCOMING EVENTS

Kidz Klub: February Half Term Fun!

"We brought in anxious children on their first day, and now they’re brimming with confidence! This is the first time I’ve needed to use a holiday club, and I’m so glad I chose you!" – A happy parent 🥰

There’s still time to book your spots for the February Half Term Kidz Klub! Don’t miss out on a week of fun, friendship, and confidence-building activities for your little ones.

📅 February Half Term

📍 Kidz Klub Location

February Fit and Fed: Book Your Spot Now!

Don’t miss out on February Fit and Fed, a fantastic opportunity for fun, fitness, and community connection this half term!

📅 Monday 17th – Friday 21st February

⏰ 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

📍 Hertfordshire Women's Centre, Longcroft Drive, Waltham Cross, EN8 7PA

Spaces are limited, so make sure to book ASAP to secure your place!

📧 For more details and to book, email [email protected].

Join us for a week of activities that will keep you active, engaged, and connected. Don’t wait—reserve your spot today!

2-Day Job Skills Course: Unlock Your Career Potential!

Join Community Alliance for a free, fully funded 2-day course to boost your job search skills!

📅 Dates: Friday 14th & 21st March 2025

⏰ Time: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM

📍 Location: 67 Fore Street, Hertford, SG14 1AL

What you’ll learn:

• Career pathways

• CVs & cover letters

• Job search & applications

• Interview skills

💡 Perfect for anyone looking to enhance their employability!

📧 To book: Contact Sarah Forbes at [email protected] or call 07487 245992.

Fossil Fun Day is BACK! 🦖

Join @rockwatch_geology at the Lowewood Museum for a family-friendly day of fossil fun this half term!

📅 Wednesday, 19 February 2025

⏰ 10:30 AM – 3:00 PM

📍 Lowewood Museum, High Street, Hoddesdon EN11 8BH

What’s on?

• Create your own plaster fossil 🎨

• Fossil handling and ID 🦴

• Fun art activities 🖌️

• Bring your fossils for identification!

Quiet Hour: 3:00–4:00 PM (by appointment only—email [email protected] to book).

🎟️ Free admission (donations welcome). No booking needed—just ROCK up!

Supported by @heritagefunduk.

Weekend Weather ⛈️ 

Friday

4°C 🌡️ 3°C | 🌧️ Light rain and a moderate breeze | ☀️ Sunrise 07:30 Sunset 17:00

Saturday

7°C 🌡️ 2°C | 🌧️ Light rain and gentle breeze | ☀️ Sunrise 07:28 Sunset 17:01

Sunday

8°C 🌡️ 3°C | ☁️ Misty and a gentle breeze | ☀️ Sunrise 07:27 Sunset 17:03

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—Have a Fab Weekend!

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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]