Letter from the Mayor of Berkhamsted, Autumn 2020

Dear Berkhamsted Residents,

The current Covid-19 crisis has disrupted all of our lives, in ways we would never have thought a few months ago.

I hope you and your families are all well and managing to stay safe.

The impact of this crisis continues to be a concern, and the Town Council continues to have funds available to support local good causes helping residents in Berkhamsted deal with the impact of the pandemic. The grants have been used to ensure vulnerable Berkhamsted residents have received essential supplies and health care workers have received essential PPE. The grant application form is available at www.berkhamstedtowncouncil.gov.uk/uploads/grant-application-form-covid19-support.docx.

The impact of the pandemic on the well-being and mental health of some of our residents has been noticeable, particularly for some of our younger people. The Town Council would actively welcome grant applications from organisations assisting our young people in Berkhamsted, with counselling and other support.

We should expect the new Borough Plan (Planning) to be consulted later this year. Dacorum Borough Council’s planning team has been tasked to draw up a robust plan that can deliver more than 1,000 new houses each year for the next few years. I will ensure that the consultation process is fully engaging and captures as much local input and involvement as possible. Work on our Climate Change initiatives is progressing. We would still like to receive interest from local residents who would like to get involved.

Finally, the Town Council continues to hold Committee Meetings via Zoom. Local residents can attend via Zoom upon request. Please look at the calendar on our website and email townclerk@berkhamstedtowncouncil.gov.uk if you would like to attend.

Cllr Garrick Stevens, Town Mayor