The Parish Council supports policy SP4 and paragraph 4.42 of the Local Plan. The village centre is a vibrant and lively trading environment, serving not only the village but also a wider rural area. There are no vacant units, but there are concerns about traffic congestion on the B197 and car parking, which is concentrated on the main street. These are addressed in our representations on Knebworth (Policies KB1 - KB4).
The current plans for a new library, doctors' surgery, and pharmacy are welcomed and should assist in supporting the future viability of the shopping centre.
It is not clear, however, how the District Council intends to deliver this policy, particularly with reference to the Local Centres, including Knebworth.