Riverside Yards: New Library Taking Shape

Work on a new library and flats is well advanced on the former site of riverside yards.

Alantic Homes started work on the development in Autumn of last year and expect to release the first homes next month.

Plans to redevelop the town's derelict riverside yards were given the go ahead by East Herts District Council in 2001. The proposals included a new library and 16 flats.

The new 300sq.m library will be on a single floor, with access from Maidenhead Street. Atlantic will provide the shell of the library whilst the County Council will fit out the interior.

The 16 flats will be two floors above the library and have allocated parking. The public will also have access to an open area fronting the river, which will feature trees and a work of art as a focal point.

Background

Hertford's riverside yards were probably one of it's best kept secrets. Lying in the heart of the town centre behind Maidenhead Street and Old Cross, the yards and their maltings fell into disuse after being vacated by local company Creasey's in the 1970s. The location presented a prime opportunity for redevelopment. This was recognised in a Planning Brief published by East Herts District Council in 1997. Covering Nicholas Lane, Maidenhead Yard, Adam's Yard and Dolphin Yard, the document states "This brief offers the opportunity to reappraise the planning of the area and consider how it can be redeveloped in a sympathetic and appropriate way".

In 1999, Hertford brewers McMullens revealed plans for the redevelopment of the town's riverside yards, including Barber's Yard to the north of the river, and Adam's Yard and Dolphin Yard to the south. The scheme included new homes in the Grade II listed maltings and a footbridge across the river near to Mill Bridge.

The plans for the bridge however, were rejected by the Inland Waterways Association because it is too low for barges to pass underneath. The association wanted to see a Port of Hertford, with crafts moored up as far as The Castle Hall.

A later plan submitted by the Brewery was approved in 2001. However, disputes over the bridge continued, together with arguments over land ownership, access, CCTC and pedestrian issues. These were finally resolved after seven years and work began in late 2008.

Housing Development New homes are being built all over town, from flats to detached properties.

Parking Issues Parking provision and costs are an issue for the town