NO!

Our vision is to save the original Green Belt allocated by government from intrusion and reduction by cynical planners, so we can continue to enjoy the beautiful and thriving countryside in North Herts that is valued and loved by everyone.

The ancient towns of Hitchin and Baldock need to be preserved to stop them being swallowed up by larger surrounding towns. Green Belt is particularly important for the setting of these two historic towns. In particular, there are views south from Baldock High Street to Weston Hills creating a visual connection with the Green Belt. As are the views into Baldock, particularly of St Mary’s Church spire from the Bygrave area to the north east. For Hitchin, the views west along the A505 Hitchin Road from the top of the slope on the edge of Letchworth show Hitchin nestling in the river valley with the hills providing a backdrop to the town. Priory Park and the grounds of Hitchin Priory in south west Hitchin create a strong link between the town centre core and the wider countryside.

The Green Belt to the north, north-west and south of Stevenage performs a significant function in

preserving the separation of Stevenage from Hitchin and Letchworth

 

 

There are five functions to the designation of Green Belt:

 • To check the unrestricted sprawl of large built-up areas.
 • To prevent neighbouring towns merging into one another.
 • To assist in safeguarding the countryside from encroachment.
 • To preserve the setting and special character of historic towns.
 • To assist in urban regeneration by encouraging the recycling of derelict and other urban land.

It is clear that different parts of the North Hertfordshire Green Belt contribute differently to its overall function. The settlements of Hitchin, Letchworth, Baldock and Knebworth and the villages have retained their separate identity through the designation of the surrounding Green Belt.
The three towns of Hitchin, Letchworth and Baldock are surrounded by Green Belt. Although they are three separate settlements they have a close relationship in the way they function. The Green Belt acts as a buffer between them which forms a green wedge to prevent development spreading. This ensures they keep their separate identities and maintain access to open space.