The Site
The site is a redundant gas works, which was previously used for the production and storage of town gas. Over time, due to the advances in gas infrastructure, a Pressure Reduction Station was installed, and now remains on site along the southern boundary of the northern parcel. The site has been vacant and closed off to the community for a number of decades. To enable development the gasholders were dismantled in the early 2000s.
See the below timeline for the history of Hertford Locks.
1825
In the 19th century the area was developed for gas storage and water treatment. In 1825, Hertfordshire’s first gasworks was established on the western edge of the site. The north western part of the site was used for gas production from 1825 until the 1970s.
1898
In 1898 an additional gasholder was located to the west of the site with a gravel pit on the eastern part.
1946
In 1946 two additional gasholders were installed on the southern boundary and one on the south eastern part of the site.
2000s
The final gasholders were decommissioned and dismantled in the early 2000s.
2014
The demolition of ancillary buildings occurred in 2014.
2017
The Hazardous Substances Consent was revoked by the Secretary of State in 2017.
2018
Hybrid planning application submitted.
2020
Hybrid application approved.
2021
Works commenced on-site and later put on hold.
2024
St Joseph take on management and delivery.
2025
Start on site expected
Our Vision is to transform the industrial site from a former age into a beautiful place which people call home. The scheme aims to re-establish the strong link between the site and the River Lea, and make a more vibrant towpath by introducing new opportunities for people to enjoy the canal.
St Joseph want to create a real community where new and existing residents of the Mead Lane area of all ages and backgrounds can enjoy a great quality of life and a beautiful natural landscape.
