Good morning and welcome to Monday!

First off, apologies for missing our usual Friday edition—technical issues grounded us, much like Heathrow Airport last week! But don’t worry, just like Heathrow, we’re back up and running smoothly.

As the week wrapped up, there was a buzz around the local reform March submission. Submission was published and we were able for the first see some of the options being discussed in closed doors. School children across Hertfordshire made their parents and teachers proud as they sang at the Royal Albert Hall.

In this edition, we bring you what happened at the Hertfordshire Schools Gala, and some updates from the Waltham Cross regeneration team, where progress is steaming ahead. Plus, for those curious about the winners of the Borough of Broxbourne Awards on 6th March, the full list is now out!

And for Monopoly enthusiasts who got in touch with us recently, we’ve got all the details you need - see link. Squares are filling up fast, but there’s still time to get your business name on the board or sponsor a local landmark. Check it out!

A warm welcome to our new subscribers—thanks for joining the Broxtown family! Got ideas or feedback? We’d love to hear from you.

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News at a Glance

Hertfordshire’s Young Stars Dazzle at Royal Albert Hall Gala

Last night, the prestigious Royal Albert Hall echoed with the voices, music, and energy of young performers from across Hertfordshire as they took part in the Hertfordshire Schools’ Gala 2025. It was a breathtaking experience for the children and young people involved—and a moment of immense pride for their families in the audience.

The event, held on Sunday 23 March, marked the 30th anniversary of the Gala at the Royal Albert Hall, presented by Hertfordshire Music Service. This year’s theme, “For the Record”, celebrated the power of music across generations, exploring how people—especially young people—connect with sound, rhythm, and expression.

Parents began the day by dropping off their children just before 3PM, before eagerly taking their seats at 7PM for a night of unforgettable performances. The Gala was a grand showcase of talent, collaboration, and creativity.

The programme featured a massive choir of primary and secondary school pupils, alongside the Hertfordshire County Youth Choir, Hertfordshire Schools’ Symphony Orchestra, and the HMS Steel Orchestra. The event also included vibrant instrumental and dance performances by local secondary schools, and featured winners of the Gala Songwriter and Rapper competitions.

Musical highlights included:

• “When I Grow Up” from Matilda the Musical

• “Make Your Own Kind of Music” by Cass Elliot

• “Believer” by Imagine Dragons

• A powerful finale performance of “You’re the Voice” by John Farnham, featuring full choir, orchestra, steel pans, drummers, and dancers

Importantly, this year’s event was shaped with input from the 2025 Gala Youth Focus Group, ensuring that the voices of young people were at the heart of the planning and musical choices.

The Hertfordshire Schools’ Gala 2025 was not just a concert—it was a celebration of youth, creativity, and community spirit, leaving both performers and their families with memories to last a lifetime.

Hertfordshire Councils Submit Bold Blueprint for Local Government Reform in March Proposal

On March 20, 2025, all 11 councils in Hertfordshire, in collaboration with the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC), presented a joint interim response to the UK Government concerning proposed reforms to local government. The submission explores various restructuring options for the county, including the possibility of replacing the current two-tier system with one to four unitary councils. The overarching goal is to ensure that any reforms deliver tangible benefits for residents and businesses, maintain high-quality local services, and preserve robust democratic accountability.

Councillor Mark Mills-Bishop, Leader of Broxbourne Council, raised concerns about the need for a full-scale reorganisation. He argued that the existing two-tier system effectively meets service delivery needs and expressed opposition to the idea of a single unitary authority covering the entire county. If restructuring moves forward, Mills-Bishop supports the creation of multiple unitary councils to ensure services remain locally focused. He reiterated his dedication to protecting Broxbourne’s interests throughout the decision-making process.

The Government is expected to review this interim response and provide feedback, which will guide the development of final proposals. These proposals are due to be submitted by November 28, 2025, after which Ministers will make their decision. Throughout this period, the councils and the OPCC are committed to engaging with residents, businesses, and other stakeholders to ensure transparency and incorporate diverse perspectives into the final plans.

Waltham Cross Town Centre Transformation Nears Completion!

Exciting progress is being made in the multi-million-pound regeneration of Waltham Cross town centre! Six months in, key upgrades are coming to life, including new street paving, pedestrian crossings, and modern lighting. The outdated Monarchs Way underpass is gone, replaced by safer street-level crossings.

The project, backed by Government funding, will bring fresh street furniture, improved paths for pedestrians and cyclists, and partial vehicle access to the High Street. These changes aim to revitalize the area, making it a vibrant destination for residents, visitors, and businesses.

Councillor Steve Wortley shared his enthusiasm: “It’s thrilling to see the new design taking shape. Waltham Cross is set to become a top spot to live, work, and visit!”

Part of the broader Renaissance Programme, the regeneration follows successes like the Living Wall, which boosts air quality, and Queen Eleanor Square. With completion expected by autumn 2025, Waltham Cross is on its way to becoming a modern, thriving hub! 🎉

Heathrow Operations Resume After Major Power Outage

Heathrow Airport has returned to full service after an "unprecedented" power outage caused by a fire at the North Hyde substation in west London. The incident, which began Thursday evening, affected approximately 200,000 passengers as flights were grounded throughout Friday.

Airport CEO Thomas Woldbye called the disruption "as big as it gets" and apologized to stranded travelers. The Metropolitan Police confirmed the fire was not suspicious and would focus their investigation on electrical distribution equipment.

By Friday evening, several airlines including British Airways began resuming flights. Restrictions on overnight flights were temporarily lifted to ease congestion.

The fire involved a transformer containing 25,000 liters of cooling fluid, requiring 70 firefighters to bring it under control. The outage also left more than 65,000 nearby homes without power until mid-afternoon.

Energy regulator Ofgem announced it would commission a review to understand the cause and identify lessons to be learned from the incident.

For full coverage and live updates, visit BBC News.

COMMUNITY UPDATE 🏘️ 

BOB Awards 2025: Broxbourne Honours Its Community Champions

The Borough of Broxbourne hosted its fifth annual BOB Awards on 6 March 2025 at The Spotlight in Hoddesdon, recognising exceptional individuals and groups who’ve made a real difference in the community. Presented by broadcaster Jeremy Nicholas, the evening celebrated stories of bravery, care, and commitment.

Among the winners were:

• Jessica Manning, who performed life-saving CPR during a critical emergency.

• Thomas Carroll MBE, awarded for his decades-long service supporting local youth.

• Justin Honey-Jones, recognised for his dedication to improving mental health services.

• Joe Westmacott, Joe turned Chars Youth FC from one team into a thriving club, giving kids of all ages the chance to play and develop. He is passionate about helping young people reach their potential.

Other award categories included volunteer excellence, community spirit, environmental impact, and youth contribution.

Councillor Sherrie McDaid, the Mayor of Broxbourne, praised the winners, saying their actions reflect the borough's best values—compassion, service, and unity.

To read the full list of award winners and their inspiring stories, visit the Broxbourne Council website.

Generation Broxbourne 2025 Inspires Hundreds of Students with Career Insights and Opportunities

The fourth annual Generation Broxbourne event took place on March 18, 2025, at Hoddesdon’s Spotlight venue, attracting hundreds of Year 10 students and over 30 local and national businesses. Students from across the borough engaged directly with industry leaders, exploring career paths and gaining valuable employment insights.

Funded by Broxbourne Council and supported by the Hertfordshire Opportunities Portal (HOP), the event highlighted the importance of connecting young people with professional mentors and employers. HOP, managed by Hertfordshire Futures, provides essential career guidance, including apprenticeships and skills development programs.

This collaboration between local government, schools, and businesses underscores a shared commitment to empowering the next generation for future success. for more read it here.

Broxbourne Council Urges Residents to Use Self-Service Portal for Convenient Access to Key Services

Broxbourne Council is reminding residents that many essential services can be accessed quickly and easily through its online Self-Service Portal, without the need to visit the council office or wait until Monday.

From applying for housing benefits and council tax reductions to requesting planning advice, the portal offers a convenient way to handle a wide range of council-related tasks at any time. New residents in particular are encouraged to use the platform to submit forms or apply for services efficiently.

The Self-Service Portal is designed to save time and streamline processes, ensuring residents can access support whenever they need it.

For more information or to get started, visit the Broxbourne Council website today.

MEME of The Day

UPCOMING EVENTS

Herts Go Green and Grow – In-Person Workshop

Join local businesses and sustainability leaders on Monday 31 March 2025, 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM at Hertford Regional College, Broxbourne Campus for the latest Herts Go Green and Grow workshop.

🎯 Focus: The Retrofit Challenge, sponsored by Broxbourne Borough Council, plus how businesses can support green skills and training.

🤝 Network, share ideas, and learn how to take action towards Net Zero in this open, cross-industry forum.

📍 Venue: High Road, Broxbourne, EN10 6AE
💼 Hosted by Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce and partners

All welcome – don’t miss it!

Broxbourne Creative Network: The Digital Edge

Unlock the power of social media to grow your creative business! Join digital specialist Michael Niles for an expert-led session packed with practical tips and strategies tailored for creatives.

🗓 Date: 9 April 2025
🕙 Time: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
📍 Venue: Hoddesdon Enterprise Centre, Pindar Road, Hoddesdon, EN11 0FJ
🎟 Book your spot: BCNTheDigitalEdge.eventbrite.co.uk

Whether you're just starting or looking to sharpen your online presence, this session will help you thrive in the digital space.
Spaces are limited – book now!

🎨 HArts Fest 2025 – Celebrating Art & Literature in Hertford

📅 Saturday, 12th April
🕛 12PM – 4PM
📍 Hertford Castle
💸 Free Entry

Join the community at Harts Fest 2025, a vibrant celebration of art, literature, and creativity in the beautiful grounds of Hertford Castle. Expect a fun-filled afternoon of:

• 🎨 Art & Craft Stalls

• 📚 Art & Literature Activities

• 🎶 Live Entertainment

• 🍔 Food & Drink Stalls

• 🏰 Castle Open Day

Whether you're an artist, reader, or simply looking for a great family day out, HArts Fest has something for everyone!

📍 Organised by Hertford Town Council
🔗 More info & updates

Waltham Cross Town Centre Business Forum

Waltham Cross employers are invited to a dedicated Business Forum to connect, collaborate, and share ideas on the future of the town centre.

🤝 Meet fellow business leaders, shop owners, and support organisations
📈 Discuss local developments and available business support
🗣 Share your views with the Council and help shape local priorities

🗓 Date: 29 April 2025
🕑 Time: 2:00 – 3:30 PM
📍 Venue: Community Skills Hub, 59–60 Pavilions Shopping Centre, Waltham Cross EN8 7BZ
✅ Register to attend: Click here

Your voice matters – don’t miss this opportunity to influence change and grow together!

Weekend Weather ☁️ 

Monday 24th

13°C 🌡️ 5°C | ☁️ Light cloud and a gentle breeze | ☀️ Sunrise 05:55 Sunset 18:19

Tuesday 25th

13°C 🌡️ 5°C | 🌧️ Light rain and gentle breeze | ☀️ Sunrise 05:53 Sunset 18:21

Wednesday 26th

15°C 🌡️ 3°C | ⛅️ Sunny interval and light winds | ☀️ Sunrise 05:50 Sunset 18:23

FOOTBALL ⚽️ 

Myles Lewis-Skelly Shines on Historic England Debut

England 2 | 0 Albania

Arsenal rising star Myles Lewis-Skelly made headlines as he scored on his senior England debut in a 2-0 win over Albania at Wembley, becoming the youngest-ever player to score on debut for the national team at just 18 years and 176 days.

Just six months ago, he was playing for Arsenal's U21s in the EFL Trophy. Now, under new England manager Thomas Tuchel, Lewis-Skelly opened the scoring with a composed finish from a Jude Bellingham assist.

Described as "fearless" by teammate Declan Rice and "amazing" by Tuchel, the young full-back impressed both on and off the pitch with his maturity, confidence, and quality. A remarkable debut that marks the beginning of what looks to be a bright future.

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 Tuesday!

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Have a fab day!

Cheers,
Editor-in-chief | Emeka Ogbonnaya

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