Since being re-elected in May, Cllr Vicky Smith has had a busy few months, and in terms of creating a greener future for the town, this is just the beginning.
Vicky is working tireless to get important plans into fruition, beginning with the Town Council declaring a climate emergency, and signing the Civility and Respect Pledge, to signify their desire to work collaboratively and supportively.
A huge upcoming project under the Council’s watch is the revitalisation of the Castle Grounds, with plans underway to revitalise the grounds, promote the site’s rich heritage, and increase wildlife.
“I am keen that the local councils work as a close partnership in our goals, and the project is going to be a huge step in achieving this. East Herts District Council, and Hertford Town Council have progressed joint plans, with the clear ambition of increasing visitors to the historical site, which will offer enhanced landscapes, accessible walkways, bike parking and a vibrant space, for all to enjoy.”
Vicky has been a Hertford resident for the last 18 years, and over that time, has always had a clear picture of how the town centre could be adapted to promote active travel.
She commented: “Hertford is very much my home- my children have grown up here. I love the open space, the river, the community, the intriguing history, all the way through to our friendly local businesses and the bustling weekend market.”
As a former education professional and parent herself, young people are at the heart of a lot of Vicky’s work, and she is already looking into youth engagement plans and setting up events.
“I have been visiting children’s schemes, launching youth art exhibitions, and getting an overview of what is on offer for our young people. I want to hear children’s opinions on decisions in their town, and for Hertford to be a diverse and exciting place for them to grow up in.”
Environmental impact is very much at the agenda of Vicky’s work, and she is conscious about setting a good example. With the increasing amount of congestion in Hertford town centre, she is putting the cogs in motion to promote active travel initiatives to residents and businesses in the area, with the concept that even little changes, can make an impact on reducing our carbon footprint.
With a green action plan in motion, the partnership of local councils is working on many incentives, including increasing bike parking facilities, and improving walking and cycling routes.
“I made a promise to myself, that I would continue to push the benefits of active travel, and that meant representing what I stood for. Since I was elected, I have either walked or cycled to every single function. It wasn’t always ideal, at times, it has rained, or I haven’t felt much like it, but I have stuck to it, and had a good chance to really explore what I might have missed behind the wheel of a car. I must admit, my biggest struggle has been getting up Port Hill, to Bengeo, but I love a challenge.”
She added: “There are so many ways that Hertford residents can get involved in making the town greener- from swapping short car journeys, to cycling and walking, through to organising a litter pick, with a group.”
Cllr Vicky Smith
At Highway Cycles, we are extremely excited to have Vicky as our new Hertford mayor.
Want to follow Vicky’s mayoral journey, and find out what’s happening in Hertford? Follow for more information: https://www.facebook.com/people/Hertford-Mayor/
Ready to start your active travel journey, but not sure where to begin? Our expert team can help you, visit: www.highwaycycles.co.uk
