The decision has been taken by North Herts District Council to continue with their proposals for the Hitchin Churchgate regeneration.

During a full council meeting in Letchworth last night, councillors unanimously voted to support cabinet proposals.

NHDC plans to refurbish the shopping centre in partnership with the Shearer Property Group.

The proposals were to continue to support the principle of a regeneration of the Churchgate Shopping Centre and Hitchin Market, noting that the “deliverability of proposals were dependant on securing funding from the Hertfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership”.

It was also agreed to progress with negotiations of legal agreements and the transfer of £130,000 from the Special Reserve fund to proceed with further work required prior to a final decision on the regeneration.

Councillor Martin Stears-Handscomb proposed a further recommendation to be voted in full council – which was amended by Councillor Sam Collins – to consult with interested parties including the residents group Churchgate Resurgence PB, who were in attendance.

This recommendation was voted through by the council, with 21 councillors voting for it and 19 against.