5 Herts planning applications you should know about

We've compiled a list of just some of the applications that are currently pending or have been approved in our areas.

Here are some that might have gone under the radar.

1. Sainsbury's Local pub plans approved

A controversial planning application to build a supermarket on vacant land next to a Hitchin pub has been approved.

Greene King's plans to construct a Sainsbury's Local at the rear of The Anchor in Cambridge Road were given the green light by North Herts Council, with the Planning Control Committee discussing the proposal for more than an hour-and-a-half before 10 votes were cast in favour of the proposal.

The Anchor in Hitchin. (Image: Google Maps)

"The principle of development in this location is considered acceptable," the council stated in their report following the decision.

"The design and layout of the scheme would not result in any unacceptable harm to the character or appearance of the locality. The development would also be appropriately sited and design to avoid any unacceptable harm to the amenities of neighbouring properties.

"The development would also be acceptable on highways safety grounds and provide sufficient off-street car parking spaces for users of the site whilst also being situated within a sustainable location."

2. Todds Green development plans

Plans have been submitted for a new housing development on Green Belt land in Todds Green, near Stevenage.

A planning application, drawn up by Cameron Bosque Brookes Architects, was submitted to Stevenage Borough Council in March.

Plans would see five large detached properties built. (Image: Cameron Bosque Brooks Architects/Stevenage Borough Council)

The proposals would see five large detached properties built, each with at least four bedrooms and two bathrooms.

Each house would have two off-road parking spaces, and electric charging facilities.

They would take over land currently used for grazing horses on Chantry Lane. A new access road would be built off the main road.

3. Bowman Flour Mill development approved

Decision-makers have granted planning permission for 71 new homes near Hitchin – almost seven years after developers made their application.

Plans have been approved almost seven years after they were made. (Image: Spawforths/North Herts Council)

The new homes project at the former Bowman flour mill, in Ickleford, stalled because an agreement could not be reached on viability and affordable housing issues, followed by the outbreak of COVID-19 in 2020, according to North Herts Council documents.

Developers proposed the application in 2017, which was approved in a decision dated March 2024.

As part of the planning permission, 40 per cent of the 71 homes – 28 in total – must be “affordable”.

4. Borehamwood development plans refused

Plans for 220 new homes in Borehamwood have been refused after the development was deemed to be "inappropriate for the Green Belt".

Plans for 220 new homes were refused. (Image: Hertsmere Borough Council)

The planning application, submitted by BDW Trading Ltd, would have seen the homes built on land off Barnet Lane and Furzehill Road, but the proposal was turned down by Hertsmere Borough Council on March 13.

"The proposed development comprises inappropriate development in the Green Belt," the council stated in their reason for refusal.

"There would be several benefits of the development, including the delivery of market, affordable and custom/self-build housing. However, the council consider that these benefits, when considered collectively, are insufficient to clearly outweigh the harm arising to the Green Belt, as well as the harm arising to landscape, character and appearance."

5. Former Potters Bar pub to become nursery

A Grade II-listed building in Potters Bar that was formerly home to pub is set to become a children's nursery.

The Green Man closed in 2014. (Image: Calvin Marketing)

The Green Man in High Street closed down in 2014 and has stood empty ever since, despite plans for homes, flats, offices and a care home all being granted.

Now, the historic building is set to be transformed into Canopy Children’s Nursery, an ambitious project which aims to provide an outstanding educational experience for children aged four months to five years.

The nursery is due to open this summer following an extensive programme of refurbishment, after Kunal and Sheena Vasa acquired the property last year.

"We are thrilled to embark on this journey of revitalising a historic landmark into a nurturing environment where young minds can flourish," said Kunal.