I recently had the pleasure of launching Watford’s Young Entrepreneurs Programme which is being run by the council in partnership with the University of Hertfordshire. The programme aims to give young people with creative business ideas and aspirations the tools they need to succeed. The event was a great opportunity to meet some of Watford’s bright young minds and is just one part of what we are doing to support local people and their business endeavours.

Other things we have been up to include running free events at Watford Market, upgrading the pavement on St Albans Road, Clarendon Road and Market Street, and installing even more Christmas Lights around town with the help of Watford Business Improvement District (BID).

The council has also relaunched its successful ‘Shop Local’ campaign in the run up to Christmas, highlighting some of our best independent local businesses and hidden gems outside the town centre.

Being a councillor for Central Ward in Watford is such an honour, and I love being able to serve the heart of our borough. There are also so many fantastic places located just outside the High Street which deserve the spotlight. I and my fellow council colleagues love spending time on Queens Road and Market Street and visiting the brilliant shops, cafes and restaurants we have there. The council recognises how important these places are and has undertaken work to improve Market Street.

If you are a local business that need some additional help visit www.watfordbusiness.com to find out what we have on offer.

Cllr Aga Dychton

Central Ward, Watford Borough Council