Tuesday, 25th February: Spring is springing and the rain wont stop!

The sun is shining, and temperatures are finally climbing into double figures—spring feels like it’s on the horizon! Snowdrops are blooming in gardens across the borough, a hopeful sign of brighter days ahead. However, the headlines today are a mixed bag. As we return to routine after the half-term break, businesses and residents are bracing for the potential impacts of the upcoming Spring Budget. We’ll dive into that and more in today’s edition.

Don’t forget, our poll for the Broxbourne-Themed Monopoly Board Game is closing soon! Share your thoughts and let us know what landmarks, businesses, or local gems you’d like to see featured.

Calling all charities! If you’d like to promote your events or organisation, we’re offering free promotionsthroughout March for registered charities. Get in touch to feature your cause here and on our social media platforms.

In Today’s Edition:

• Anticipated Hikes in Taxes, Fees, and Costs Spark Local Concerns in the Spring Budget

• Council Warns Residents of Car Park Scams Targeting Unsuspecting Drivers

• The Old Anchor Cheshunt Temporarily Closes for Refurbishment

There’s so much more to share, so keep reading to the end!

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News at a Glance

Anticipated Hikes in Taxes, Fees, and Costs Spark Local Concerns in the Spring Budget

As Broxbourne Borough residents prepare for the Spring Budget on 26 March 2025, residents and business owners are anticipating significant changes that could reshape the local landscape. From hospitality businesses to property owners and families with children in private schools, the proposed measures are sparking concern and conversation across the community.

Local cafes and pubs, already operating on tight margins, are bracing for the impact of higher employer National Insurance contributions and reduced business rates relief. An owner of a local Bistro, voices the challenges many face: “These changes could force us to cut staff hours or raise prices just to stay afloat.” The potential ripple effects—staff cuts, higher prices, and reduced services—could reshape the vibrant local hospitality scene.

Meanwhile, property owners and investors are grappling with proposed increases to Capital Gains Tax (CGT) and reforms to stamp duty, particularly affecting those with second homes. Property consultants are warning of the broader implications: “Landlords may decide to sell up, which could reduce rental stock and drive rents even higher.” This could leave renters facing steeper costs in an already competitive market.

Families with children in private schools are also feeling the pinch, as a planned 20% VAT on private school fees is set to take effect in January 2025. For parents whose children attend Independent Schools, they are highlighting how the added financial burden is a source of stress. “A 20% hike means we may need to reconsider private schooling altogether,” they share, highlighting the tough choices many families may soon face.

While these proposals are still under debate, the government’s aim to balance fiscal responsibility with investments in public services has left many in the Borough anxious about the local impact. As the budget discussions unfold, the community is encouraged to stay informed and share their perspectives. Broxtown Newsletter will continue to provide updates, ensuring residents have a voice in the conversation.

Alert: Car Parking Scams on the Rise – Stay Vigilant!

Residents in the borough have recently reported a surge in car parking scams, with fraudsters placing fake QR codes on parking boards. These codes redirect unsuspecting drivers to fraudulent websites designed to steal payment details instead of processing legitimate parking fees. This alarming trend is not isolated to our area—similar scams have been reported nationwide.

To combat this, the council has launched a social media campaign to educate residents on what to expect at council-run car parks. The campaign includes visuals of legitimate payment information to help residents identify genuine parking payment systems and avoid falling victim to these scams.

However, the campaign has also sparked conversations among residents about weekend parking charges imposed by the council. Some have expressed frustration, noting that these fees make it challenging to move around freely, even on weekends.

The council urges all residents to remain cautious when using QR codes for parking payments and to report any suspicious activity immediately. Stay informed, stay alert, and help spread the word to protect our community from these scams.

For more information and tips, follow the council’s official social media channels. Together, we can outsmart scammers and keep our borough safe!

The Old Anchor Cheshunt Temporarily Closes for Refurbishment

The Old Anchor in Cheshunt is set to undergo a significant transformation as it prepares for a temporary closure to facilitate refurbishment works. The popular pub will be shutting its doors for approximately four weeks to allow for the upgrades, marking the end of an era for the establishment as it’s currently known.

In a heartfelt social media post, The Old Anchor invited loyal customers to join them for a final send-off before the closure. The post encouraged patrons to visit on the last day of operation, from 12:00 PM to 10:30 PM, to enjoy a final drink and bid farewell to the pub’s current look. The message expressed excitement about the upcoming changes, promising a fresh new look while reminiscing about the memories created in the space.

The refurbishment aims to enhance the pub’s atmosphere and facilities, ensuring an even better experience for customers upon reopening. While the temporary closure may disappoint regulars, the team at The Old Anchor is eager to unveil the revamped venue and continue serving the community.

Stay tuned for updates on the reopening date and the exciting changes ahead!

Hertfordshire County Council Stands in Solidarity with Ukraine

Today, February 24, Hertfordshire County Council is illuminating County Hall in blue and yellow to commemorate the third anniversary of the conflict in Ukraine. This symbolic gesture serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle faced by the Ukrainian people and Hertfordshire’s unwavering support for those affected by the war.

The council is also calling on residents to show their solidarity by considering hosting a Ukrainian individual or family through the "Ukrainians in Hertfordshire" initiative. This program has provided refuge and support to many displaced Ukrainians, offering them safety and a sense of community during these challenging times.

By lighting up County Hall and encouraging community involvement, the council aims to raise awareness, foster compassion, and reinforce Hertfordshire’s commitment to standing with Ukraine. Residents are urged to join this effort, whether by opening their homes or simply spreading the word about the initiative.

Together, we can make a difference and demonstrate that Hertfordshire remains a place of refuge, hope, and solidarity for those in need.

MEME of The Day

UPCOMING EVENTS

Discover Your Future: Broxbourne Careers Event for Students

Calling all students in Years 10-13! Are you curious about the exciting career opportunities waiting for you in Broxbourne? Don’t miss this chance to explore your future and get inspired!

📅 Date: Tuesday, 18 March
⏰ Time: 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM
📍 Location: Spotlight Theatre, High Street, Hoddesdon, EN11 8BE

This event is your gateway to discovering a wide range of career paths, meeting local employers, and gaining valuable insights into the industries thriving in Broxbourne. Whether you’re unsure about your next steps or already have a career in mind, this is the perfect opportunity to ask questions, network, and plan your future.

Spaces are limited, so secure your spot today!

Join a Guided Ride with Generation Broxbourne 2025!

Get ready for an unforgettable day out! Generation Broxbourne is back for 2025, and we’re inviting you to join a FREE Guided Ride led by an expert local guide. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or just looking for a fun way to explore the area, this is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors and discover hidden gems in Broxbourne.

🚴‍♂️ What to Expect:

• A leisurely ride tailored for all skill levels

• Expert guidance from a local cycling enthusiast

• Stunning scenery and a chance to connect with fellow riders

📅 Date: Coming in 2025 (stay tuned for exact dates!)
📍 Location: Broxbourne (specific route details provided upon booking)

🎟️ It’s FREE and easy to book! Don’t miss out—secure your spot now and get ready to pedal your way to adventure.

Tuesday Weather ☀️ 🌦️ 

Tuesday

10°C 🌡️ 1°C | 🌤️ Sunny and a gentle breeze | ☀️ Sunrise 06:55 Sunset 17:32

WORD OF THE DAY

QUIP

Today’s Word of the Day is QUIP refers to a clever, witty, or sarcastic remark, often made in a lighthearted or humorous way. It’s typically a short, sharp comment that is meant to amuse or provoke thought. Quips are commonly used in conversations, writing, or speeches to add humour, irony, or a playful tone.

Usage:

1. In Conversation:

   • Example: "When asked why he was late, John quipped, 'Traffic was too busy admiring my car.'"
     Here, John uses a quip to humorously deflect the question about his lateness.

2. In Writing:

   • Example: In essays, articles, or stories, authors might use quips to engage readers or add levity.
     Example: "The politician, known for his sharp tongue, quipped, 'If ignorance is bliss, my opponent must be the happiest person alive.'"

3. In Speeches or Public Speaking:

   • Quips are often used to break the ice, lighten the mood, or make a point memorably.
     Example: A speaker might say, "They say money can’t buy happiness, but it can buy coffee, and that’s pretty close."

4. In Media and Entertainment:

   • Characters in movies, TV shows, or books often use quips to showcase their personality or add humor to a scene.
     Example: In Marvel movies, Tony Stark (Iron Man) is famous for his quips, like, "Genius, billionaire, playboy, philanthropist."

Tip: A quip is a quick, witty remark used to add humour or cleverness to a conversation or situation. It’s a tool for making people laugh, think, or simply enjoy the moment.

Thanks for Reading—See You Friday!

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Wishing you a fantastic rest of your day!

Cheers,
Editor-in-chief | Emeka Ogbonnaya

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