The One Town Centre development has finally opened, with councillors hoping it will "breathe new life" into Hatfield.

The project was part of the Hatfield Regeneration Programme and will bring 71 modern homes, including 38 socially rented flats, as well as new retail and leisure spaces.

One Town Centre was officially opened at a ribbon cutting ceremony on September 6, with the Mayor of Welwyn Hatfield, councillor Pankit Shah, leader of the council, Cllr Paul Zukowskyj, chief executive Ka Ng, as well as representatives from the Hertfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership, Homes England and developers Lovell, in attendance.

"One Town Centre is a notable achievement for our borough, completing yet another redevelopment of part of Hatfield Town Centre, bringing it right up to date in the 21st century as a really attractive new place," said Cllr Zukowskyj.

Welwyn Hatfield Times: One Town Centre is part of the wider regeneration of Hatfield.One Town Centre is part of the wider regeneration of Hatfield. (Image: Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council)

The new homes are designed to support the borough’s climate pledge by being built without gas, and instead utilising low energy Nilan units providing heating and hot water.

"It is a boost for our economy and a testament to our commitment to sustainability and green innovation," Cllr Zukowskyj continued. 

"It is also well connected to public transport and cycling so really does provide sustainable place to live. I invite everyone to come and enjoy the new look and feel of Hatfield Town Centre."

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Following the transformation of White Lion Square and the construction of the award-winning Common Multi Storey Car Park, Cllr Chesterman hopes the One Town Centre development will continue to "breathe new life" into Hatfield.

"The One Town Centre development breathes new life into this part of Hatfield, providing a key gateway to the town," she said.

Welwyn Hatfield Times: Inside the flats at One Town Centre.Inside the flats at One Town Centre. (Image: Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council)

"As the portfolio holder for housing, I am really pleased that 38 of the 71 homes are affordable housing units, providing much needed support to people living in the borough."

The regeneration of Hatfield will now continue at Link Drive, with developer Lovell Homes building 80 contemporary apartments set to be completed by 2024.

Mick Laws, regional managing director at Lovell, added: "We are delighted to see this project now coming to a great conclusion and value our excellent working relationship with Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council as we continue to construct sister project Link Drive."