Council purchases key commercial building to support town centre
Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council has completed the purchase of a key commercial asset in Welwyn Garden City.
This is a long-term investment into the future vitality and viability of the town centre and demonstrates the council’s continued commitment to the future of the town.
The acquisition of the Gate House building next to the Howard Centre will give the council greater power to shape the future development of the town centre so that it remains sustainable as shopping habits change.
The council is committed to championing local businesses and supporting vibrant town centres, and this purchase allows it to protect this valuable employment space from undesirable redevelopment. This purchase was spearheaded by the recently established Town Centres Task Force, which is committed to ensuring our town centres are vibrant, thriving and welcoming places.
Located opposite a block which is already owned by the council, the Gate House is a strategically important site containing retail, hotel and office spaces. Its acquisition will help the council to control the direction of development in the town centre – an approach that has been key to the success of regeneration projects in Hatfield. In addition, the building will provide a substantial income to the council, supporting services and reducing the reliance on council tax and central government funding.
Councillor Rose Grewal, Executive Member for Planning, said:
“We’re really proud of our town centres and want to ensure they remain thriving destinations that attract a wide range of visitors and support the local economy.
“As town centres across the country continue to face challenges from changing shopping habits, acquiring the Gate House will ensure the council is in a strong position to shape future developments in Welwyn Garden City for the benefit of local residents, businesses, and communities - whilst maintaining this town’s distinctive character as an iconic Garden City.”