HATFIELD’S long-awaited regeneration scheme took a vital step forward last night (Thursday), as revised plans to revamp the town centre were approved.

Members of Welwyn Hatfield Council’s planning control committee voted unanimously in favour of the proposals, which would see a high street and town square introduced into the east side of the centre, along with new retail, commercial and residential units. A new bus interchange, public car parking and taxi rank are also amongst the proposals.

Rupert Wood, regional manager of developer St Modwen, said approving the plans would “put the regeneration of Hatfield town centre in the best possible position to progress”.

“The overarching objective is to regenerate Hatfield town centre, which is long overdue and which St Modwens remains fully committed,” he said.

But while the plans were met with approval, there remains a level of scepticism among residents and councillors who have already seen one scheme abandoned due to the recession.

Hatfield town councillor Linda Clark told the meeting: “Please put some building blocks in place because until you start, you’ve still not got the full confidence of Hatfield.”