The Coronation is almost here! Preparations across the country are reaching a climax and the atmosphere is one of huge excitement, especially here in Hertfordshire. There are lots of special events going on in Ware and Hertford, namely Ware’s Annual Food Festival with a ‘coronation twist’ and The King’s Coronation Festival at Hertford Castle. It feels like I was only just at the Castle this time last year in honour of Her late Majesty The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee - the displays, particularly by the Hertford Yarnbombers, were absolutely incredible. I look forward to seeing what is in store for us to admire this year too.
Over the last few weeks, I have been running a competition with primary school children from across the constituency to design a Coronation card for me to send to His Majesty The King. I love organising these kinds of community competitions and had lots of fantastic entries - it was so difficult picking a winner! Please continue to keep an eye out for any updates on the winning design on my social media channels.
Another important event coming up this month is the local election on 4th May. I have been out and about catching up with our brilliant councillors in both Ware and Hertford in recent weeks. They work hard for our community and it is vital people turn out to vote and have their say.
When it comes to local campaigns, improving the Rush Green roundabout remains a top priority. The traffic causes huge delays to residents and there have also sadly been numerous traffic incidents too. After lobbying both McDonald’s and BP in the House of Commons, I secured a deal between the two of them to work together on a long-term solution. Though their progress on this plan has been frustratingly slow up until this point, there is finally some encouraging news. McDonald’s and BP have now submitted a proposal to East Herts Council that is currently under review. I am really pleased we are getting somewhere and will continue to press both companies and the Council to make sure this progress continues.
In other good news, final talks between the Post Office and the application they are progressing are going well. Negotiations to bring back full services, including banking, to the old site on Ware High Street are now closing and refurbishment works are already underway. I know how difficult the wait has been for many residents - this breakthrough comes as a huge relief. I continue to work with all involved to see services there restored for people as soon as possible.
I have hosted lost of constituents in Westminster for tours of Parliament in recent weeks. If you would also like to visit, please email my office at julie.marson.mp@parliament.uk with your full contact details and availability. For any other queries, and as always, please do not hesitate to get in touch.