The BID manager for Letchworth was full of praise for the town's "fantastic community spirit" as he looked ahead to 2026.
This year has seen plenty of new businesses open in Letchworth, including ONCU replacing Wilko, while the likes of Mumma Rumbas and SNU came to The Wynd.
The brand-new play area and events such as Comic Con and the Pumpkin Patch have left BID manager Richard Harbon feeling optimistic heading into the new year.
"There are many reasons for businesses, residents and visitors to Letchworth town centre to be optimistic about 2026," he told the Comet.
"Only this morning we saw the Heritage Lounge open in one of the old bank buildings. Another will soon open its doors to the Refrm Dynamic Pilates studio.
"In 2025, ONCU replaced Wilkos and smaller shops such as Mumma Rumbas and SNU came to The Wynd. All exciting additions to the increasingly popular town centre and a real vote of confidence for the town.
"These additions are on the back of a brand-new play area and new events such as Comic Con and the Pumpkin Patch. In addition, there are plans to redevelop Garden Square with an improved and varied customer experience."
Richard is wary of the "tough economic climate" that is likely to continue hitting businesses hard into 2026, he believes Letchworth's "fantastic community spirit" will see the town thrive.
"I am not that naïve to suggest that the economic climate is still tough with increased overheads and ever-changing spending habits," he continued.
"What is evident in Letchworth, though, is the continuing fantastic community spirit and support, including the business community. Who can forget the Platform Planters, Glaswyndbury, Little People Love Letchworth and the poppy cascade.
"Together with the improved street scene, befitting the first Garden City, there is plenty of evidence to suggest that the efforts of all the businesses and partners are paying off and that Letchworth Garden City will be successful in attracting people to the town centre next year and in years to come."
