WANT TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN PLANNING? Following our successful Planning Training event in November 2012, we are pleased to be able to offer a Planning Training Day on 27 June from 9.45am-4pm at the University of Hertfordshire. Suitable for those who already have a basic knowledge of the planning system and are looking to develop their skills. Email us for details or download a booking form below.

MIDSUMMER MEANDER THURSDAY 20 JUNE: Come for an evening stroll, led by our Hon. Director Kevin FitzGerald around Bramfield. Meet at 6.30pm in Bury Lane Car Park (just past the Grandison Arms). Length 3.25 miles. No stiles, short stretch of road. Wear suitable clothing and footwear. All welcome but all walkers do so at their own risk. Email us if you can come.   

SAFEGUARD OUR SOILS: A petition has been launched calling on Secretary of State Eric Pickles to include protection for Best and Most Versatile (BMV) agricultural land in the National Planning policy Framework (NPPF). View the petition.

Secretary of State orders re-opening of Public Inquiry into West of Stevenage (March 2013): Eric Pickles has ordered the re-opening of an inquiry into a proposal to build 3,600 houses to the west of Stevenage - one of the strategic sites in NHDC's most recent consultation

LANDBANKING, BREAKING NEWS: May 2013 It was with some dismay that we read breaking news in the local press about one of the most attractive sites marred by landbanking, located in the Green Belt in the lovely Mimram Valley at Tewin.  A group of plot owners proposes to build a large number of houses there. More on Landbanking

CPRE Hertfordshire Rural Living Awards: Nominate a project for a Rural Community Living or Rural Community Environment Award, name your Rural Living Champion

Luton Airport Expansion (April 2013): We have asked the Secretary of State to 'call in' an application to expand the facilities and taxiway at Luton Airport, as a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project. The expansion includes an increase in the throughput of passengers. Luton Borough Council owns the airport through London Luton Airport Limited, yet it is set to determine the application. The Comet newspaper has launched an e-petition calling for the decision to be taken out of its hands. Sign the petition Read our response to the application and call for a call-in below