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Help shape the future of your St Albans City Centre
The last time St Albans had a City Centre Vision was a draft back in 2009. Much has happened since then: high streets retailers have suffered from the growth of internet shopping and alterations in consumer spending; climate change and environmental pollution have created environmental concerns requiring green and sustainable solutions. To create a City Centre of the future St Albans residents can enjoy, your input is needed today.
In June this year, St Albans Business Improvement District (BID) worked in partnership with St Albans District Council on a webinar conference, which was organised and chaired by Tim Boatswain, the then Chair of the Civic Society. The conference looked at the way city centres are changing and how St Albans urgently needs a new vision to respond to a different environment.
Tim, now Chair of the BID’s City Centre Vision Steering Group says:
“City centres are not only crucial to the economic success of places, providing accommodation for 8% of businesses and 14 per cent of jobs, there are residents who also live there, and city centres are also social and cultural hubs for the whole community. It is crucially important that we reshape and invest in our city centre to ensure St Albans has a vibrant and attractive future.”
Shaping the future of St Albans City Centre
So who decides what St Albans should like in the future, ensuring all its citizens who live and work in the city centre have their say, you ask? Tim says that the BID has proposed that we create a City Centre Vision that has a statutory status, under the Localism Act 2011, where there is no town or parish council there is a requirement to form a Neighbourhood Forum, which can then draft a Neighbourhood Plan.”
Mandy McNeil, Vice-Chair of the BID says, “It’s been amazing to see how many residents, from cyclists to runners, to families, both young and old, are drawn to the city centre during COVID19. It’s clear they are passionate about their city centre, want to support local businesses and many want to see things like a Cathedral Quarter, creative/vibrant and flexible workspaces, activities for young adults and affordable incubator retail, become a reality.”
Sarah Gillow, Co Vice-Chair and a local business owner of almost 30 years says “We need a city centre vision which includes planning protections that consider our precious environment, while showcasing the vibrancy and heritage of St Albans, to encourage people to live, work and visit our city.” “Tim (supported by Vanessa Sharp) is doing an incredible job in chairing this city centre vision initiative. A Neighbourhood Forum will empower city centre residents and businesses, including our small independent businesses with a voice in planning what their neighbourhood will look in the future”.
While Council cannot be involved in a Neighbourhood Forum or Plan, this initiative is something that Cllr Robert Donald, the Portfolio Holder for Commercial Development and Wellbeing sees as a positive step. Robert says “I strongly support the concept of a vision overview for the city centre and to understand what the community would like to see there for the next 50 years plus. A Neighbourhood Plan will help to inform the development strategy for the city, helping to enable the Council to place shape to futureproof our local economy, including commercial use and retailing.”
St Albans City Centre is home to many popular independents
Under the guidance of BID, Tim and BID business liaison manager, Vanessa Sharp, have organised a second open webinar for 8th December at 6 pm to examine how to take St Albans City Centre Vision forward.
One of the participants in June webinar, James Hampton (who had previously taken part in the BBC Panorama TV programme How to Save the High Street) of New Makers Bureau (a London-based Architectural Practice, known for environmentally and socially conscious buildings) has been funded by the BID to produce scoping exercise for the City Centre Vision. He will be the first speaker at the webinar when he will present St Albans City Centre Vision Initial Ideas.
The second speaker at the webinar will be David Carlisle, an Associate Director of AECOM (an international planning and infrastructure company with an office in St Albans), which is contracted to deliver planning services through the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) to Locality (a nationwide network of community organisations); David will talk about Processes for Establishing a Neighbourhood Forum leading to a Neighbourhood Plan.
The last speaker is Dr Ros Rivas, besides having a distinguished career in industry, has recently been appointed by the Government as Chair of the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority, was educated in St Albans and led on the Eton and Eton Wick Neighbourhood Plan. She will describe her experiences of drafting a Neighbourhood Plan. These talks will be followed by a question and answer question session.
Join the discussion on St Albans City Centre
If you would like to join this webinar on 8th December, 6 pm, please click on the link:
Zoom Meeting https://zoom.us/j/4996754679?pwd=VmhKc3BDcXRkRlkzd2VTTTRHU0dmQT09
Meeting ID: 499 675 4679 | Passcode: 682170
For more information on how you can get involved in this exciting initiative please contact Tim at timboatswain@hotmail.com or Vanessa Sharp at vanessa.sharp@stalbansbid.com
Prepare for a magical New Year’s Eve at Tewinbury’s exquisite Tythe Barn, where rustic charm meets understated luxury. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Mimram Valley in Hertfordshire, this exclusive celebration promises an evening of indulgence, joy, and unforgettable memories.
The Perfect Celebration
The festivities begin with a sparkling Champagne reception, accompanied by an array of exquisite canapés. Guests will then be treated to a carefully curated four-course meal, perfectly paired with fine wine to tantalise the taste buds. The evening continues with live entertainment, providing the ideal soundtrack to dance your way into 2025 with loved ones.
As the clock approaches midnight, toast to the New Year in the enchanting ambience of Tythe Barn, a space renowned for its blend of rustic charm and modern elegance. With its exposed wooden beams and festive decor, this venue offers an intimate yet vibrant setting for a truly memorable night.
About Tewinbury
Tewinbury is not just a venue; it is an experience. Located in the heart of the Hertfordshire countryside, this 700-acre estate provides a tranquil escape just a short journey from the hustle and bustle of London. Only 30 minutes by train from King’s Cross, Tewinbury feels a world away with its idyllic surroundings and refined country charm.
The estate is renowned for its farm-to-table dining, luxury lodges, and bespoke experiences, making it a sought-after destination for both celebrations and retreats. Tythe Barn itself is a jewel in Tewinbury’s crown, offering a beautiful setting steeped in history and brimming with character.
Whether you are a local or travelling in from further afield, Tewinbury provides the perfect backdrop for creating cherished memories this New Year’s Eve.
Event Details
- Date: 31st December 2024
- Venue: Tythe Barn, Tewinbury, Hertford Road, Welwyn, Hertfordshire, AL6 0JB
- Tickets: £165 per person (includes Champagne reception, canapés, four-course meal, wine, and entertainment)
- Time: Evening
Make Your Booking
Tickets are limited for this exclusive event, so secure your place early to avoid disappointment. Book online at tewinbury.co.uk/event/new-years-eve-at-tythe-barn or contact the team directly at 01438 717793 or reservations@tewinbury.co.uk.
The Nordic countries are celebrated for their breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage, making them a must-visit destination. Whether you’re seeking the northern lights in Norway, exploring the historic sites of Denmark, or immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Sweden, selecting the right accommodation can significantly enhance your trip. Scandic Hotels, the largest hotel operator in the Nordics, offers a variety of options that combine prime locations with exceptional experiences. In this blog post, we’ll explore the top five Scandic Hotels to consider for your Nordic adventure and introduce you to Scandic’s revamped loyalty programme, designed to offer even more value and personalised experiences.
1. Scandic Grand Central, Stockholm, Sweden
Location: Heart of Stockholm
Scandic Grand Central is ideally located in the heart of Stockholm, making it perfect for exploring the city. Situated just steps from Stockholm Central Station, this hotel offers easy access to the city’s main attractions, including the historic Gamla Stan, the bustling shopping district of Drottninggatan, and the stunning Royal Palace. Everything you need for a memorable stay in Stockholm is within walking distance.
Experience: Historic Charm Meets Modern Comfort
Housed in a historic building dating back to 1885, Scandic Grand Central artfully blends classic architecture with modern amenities. The hotel boasts stylish rooms with a mix of contemporary and vintage decor, a vibrant restaurant serving Swedish and international cuisine, and a cosy bar perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing. Its central location and unique ambience make it a top choice for travellers seeking both convenience and character.
2. Scandic Vulkan, Oslo, Norway
Location: Trendy Grünerløkka District
Located in Oslo’s trendy Grünerløkka district, Scandic Vulkan offers a chic and vibrant stay. This area is known for its eclectic mix of cafes, boutiques, and street art, providing a unique urban experience. The hotel is also close to the Akerselva River, ideal for scenic walks and exploring the city’s green spaces.
Experience: Urban Chic with a Focus on Sustainability
Scandic Vulkan is a modern hotel that places a strong emphasis on sustainability. The hotel’s design is sleek and contemporary, with eco-friendly practices integrated into its operations. Guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant, which focuses on locally sourced ingredients, or relax in the hotel’s bar with views of the vibrant neighbourhood. For those who appreciate modern design and sustainability, Scandic Vulkan is an excellent choice.
3. Scandic Copenhagen, Denmark
Location: Central Copenhagen
Situated in the heart of Denmark’s capital, Scandic Copenhagen offers easy access to the city’s top attractions, including Tivoli Gardens, Nyhavn, and the iconic Little Mermaid statue. The hotel is also close to the city’s main shopping streets and a variety of restaurants and cafes, making it a convenient choice for both leisure and business travellers.
Experience: Spacious Comfort with Stunning Views
Scandic Copenhagen features spacious rooms with panoramic views of the city skyline or nearby lakes. The hotel offers a range of amenities, including a fitness centre, a restaurant serving delicious Danish cuisine, and meeting facilities for business travellers. Its central location and comfortable accommodations make Scandic Copenhagen a favourite among visitors to the city.
4. Scandic Ishavshotel, Tromsø, Norway
Location: Gateway to the Arctic
Scandic Ishavshotel is located in Tromsø, often referred to as the “Gateway to the Arctic.” This hotel offers unmatched access to Arctic adventures, including northern lights tours, whale watching, and dog sledding. Its waterfront location provides stunning views of the harbour and surrounding mountains, making it an ideal choice for nature enthusiasts.
Experience: Cosy Luxury in the Arctic
The hotel offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, with cosy rooms that provide a perfect retreat after a day of Arctic exploration. Guests can enjoy a meal at the hotel’s restaurant, which features locally sourced Arctic ingredients, or relax with a drink in the bar while taking in the breathtaking views. Scandic Ishavshotel combines luxury and adventure, making it a top choice for those seeking an unforgettable Arctic experience.
5. Scandic Paasi, Helsinki, Finland
Location: Cultural Hub of Helsinki
Scandic Paasi is located in the lively Hakaniemi district, a cultural hub of Helsinki. The hotel is within walking distance of the city’s major attractions, including the Helsinki Cathedral, the National Museum of Finland, and the bustling Market Square. The nearby metro station also provides easy access to the rest of the city.
Experience: Unique Design with a Creative Flair
Scandic Paasi stands out for its unique design, inspired by the history and culture of Helsinki. Each room is individually decorated, offering a creative and artistic atmosphere. The hotel features a cosy lounge, a vibrant restaurant, and a well-equipped gym. Its distinctive design and central location make Scandic Paasi a favourite for travellers looking for a unique and memorable stay in Helsinki.
Scandic’s New Loyalty Programme: More Rewards, More Value
Today, Scandic has unveiled its new loyalty programme, which aims to strengthen the company’s commercial offering, boost member loyalty, and create more relevant experiences for guests. The existing programme, Scandic Friends, has been completely revamped to provide more beneficial, personalised, and digital experiences.
Scandic Friends, the largest loyalty programme in the Nordic hotel industry with 3 million members, has been redesigned with the goal of doubling its membership by 2030. In 2023, Scandic Friends accounted for about 38 percent of the total room nights sold, and the new programme is expected to further increase member bookings and overall revenue.
The new Scandic Friends features an expanded structure, growing from five to seven membership levels. Each level includes carefully selected benefits that cater to the diverse needs of guests, whether they stay frequently or less often. The programme has improved member and level-specific offerings, making it easier to earn and use points, access various benefits, and enhance their stay with add-on services like upgrades or pre-ordered refreshments.
According to Jens Mathiesen, President & CEO at Scandic Hotels Group, “Loyal and returning guests are central for us at Scandic. They drive our growth and create a strong and stable community around our brands. We now have a solid platform that will improve the member experience and have laid the foundation to continue developing the programme and add new exciting partnerships. This will enable us to continue building long-term relationships with stronger incentives to choose Scandic for future hotel stays.”
The development of the new programme involved in-depth interviews with existing and potential members, as well as extensive research within the travel industry and beyond. Built on these insights and Scandic’s customer data, the new programme aims to provide a more tailored and personalised membership experience, increasing member interaction and engagement over time.
Thérèse Cedercreutz, Chief Commercial Officer at Scandic Hotels Group, added, “Creating a guest-focused loyalty programme designed to make the most of every member interaction has been the fundamental focus during the entire development process. We have put a lot of emphasis on digital investments to enable and create an ecosystem we can develop over time. This is just the beginning, and I’m convinced that our members will appreciate the new features and offerings that we’ll gradually be adding.”
The new Scandic Friends programme will take effect on 27 August 2024. In the coming days, existing members will be gradually transitioned into the new programme. This launch marks the beginning of the next generation of loyalty programmes, with more personalised benefits and offerings to be added in the future.
Membership Levels in the New Scandic Friends:
- New Friend – 0 points
- Good Friend – 5,000 points
- Close Friend – 10,000 points
- Dear Friend – 25,000 points
- Loyal Friend – 100,000 points
- True Friend – 250,000 points
- Best Friend – 400,000 points or 100 nights
Choosing the right hotel is crucial to making the most of your Nordic adventure. Each of the Scandic Hotels featured in this post offers a unique combination of location, comfort, and experience, ensuring a memorable stay. And with Scandic’s newly enhanced loyalty programme, there’s never been a better time to explore the Nordics. Book your stay today and enjoy the best that Scandinavia has to offer with Scandic Hotels.
Henley-based, WH Brakspear & Sons, is delighted to announce that it is currently purchasing the freehold interest in The George Public House, a beautiful, 16th century, Grade II listed inn located in centre of the idyllic Bedfordshire village of Maulden.
The George was taken over by Maulden villagers, Julian and Emma Smith, in 2011. The couple bought and completely refurbished the then derelict pub whilst sensitively renovating its many original architectural features using local contractors, Kingshall Estates UK Ltd.
Departing owner, Emma Smith says,” The pub was a wreck when we bought it, but we replaced everything from the plumbing, electrics and the layout, built a new carpark and created a two-bed flat for a tenant. We then commissioned talented Birmingham-based, pub interior designers, Spencer Swinden, to create contemporary and cosy spaces to drink, eat and stay to a high spec.”
Now a thriving community hub, The George has a light and airy public bar, restaurant with 120 covers, a private function room seating 18-24 and seven, boutique-style, en-suite guest rooms housed in cottage style accommodation overlooking its landscaped beer garden with an attractive dining terrace, and currently has planning permission to build five additional bedrooms.
Tom Davies, Brakspear CEO commented, “We are delighted to announce the acquisition of The George at Maulden. It will be a fantastic addition to our estate. We don’t have many pubs in Bedfordshire, so we are really excited to be there, especially with the proposed Universal Studios development so close by.”
Having run the pub since 2016, Julian and Emma are leaving the pub in really good shape. “It’s been an amazing journey, particularly as we had no previous experience in hospitality when we started out.” says Emma. “We’ve absolutely loved every minute of our time at The George, but Julian and I are now ready to move on to our next adventure, which we’re currently deciding on. “The tenants will just be able to just jump straight in and run it with a wonderful, enthusiastic team of 40 staff ready to support them,” says Emma Smith.
“Our vision is to retain The George as a community hub whilst also offering a wonderful place to relax, stay and dine if visiting from further afield,” says Brakspear’s Business Development director, Gerard Winder. “Brakspear is now looking for a new tenant with experience of the area and who can fit in to a local pub with a loyal following and a strong background in food and beverage to be able to operate a quality informal operation on a tenancy agreement”.
The George lies eight miles south of Bedford and 13 miles from Luton. The market town of Ampthill is 2 miles away. Surrounded by the ancient Maulden Wood and halfway along the Greensand Ridge Walk, the area is a popular tourist destination with Centre Parcs, Woburn Safari Park, Woburn Abbey Deer Park and Woburn Golf Club close by. The proposed Universal Studios site is three miles away. The nearest train station is Flitwick with direct mainline services to London St Pancras.
The George Inn, 6 George St, Maulden, Bedford MK45 2DF, https://www.thegeorgemaulden.com
