Dear Review,
The destruction of Hatfield's former art deco styled cinema is nothing short of cultural vandalism.
Why is it that the Borough Council never seem to show Hatfield any respect?
They pretend they have no powers to stop the developers, but this is not true.
I read that dozens of student flats are to be built on the site. Part of this process involves the developer paying to the Council something called 'Section 106' money, also known as a 'planning gain'. This would be about £500 per flat, and this money is then supposed to be used for Hatfield projects.
Couldn't the Council have insisted that, instead of the '106' money, the developer kept and tidied up the frontage of the original cinema and gave a lick of paint to the rest of the parade? This would also make their building uniquely attractive in a themed manner - especially to students.
It's too late now, but this is yet another example of Borough Council ignorance to the detriment of Hatfield.
Regards, Andy Stephens
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here