Hertfordshire News
News
A major cyberattack has disrupted operations at Stevenage's GSK pharmaceutical plant, with experts working around the clock to secure sensitive medical research data. Meanwhile, Hertfordshire Constabulary has launched "Operation Nightjar" targeting organised retail crime rings following a spike in thefts across Watford and Hemel Hempstead.
Business News
Rolls-Royce in Hatton has secured a £2bn contract to develop next-generation nuclear reactors, creating 300 high-skilled jobs. St Albans' Herts Growth Hub reports a 25% increase in tech startups, while Warner Bros. Studios in Leavesden announces expansion plans for its Harry Potter tourism facilities.
Economic News
Hertfordshire's economy grew by 3.8% in Q1 2025 - the strongest performance in the East of England - driven by life sciences and film production. However, commuter belt housing prices have risen 18% year-on-year, with average homes in Harpenden now exceeding £800,000.
Political News
Controversy erupts as Hertfordshire County Council approves £90m cuts to adult social care, prompting protests outside County Hall in Hertford. The proposed A414 upgrade faces delays after environmental groups file legal challenges over ancient woodland impacts.
Election News
Key marginal seats (St Albans, Hitchin & Harpenden) show Labour leading by 4-6 points in latest polls. Immigration and healthcare dominate debates, with Conservative candidates emphasising their London commuter belt transport improvements.
Employment News
Jaguar Land Rover's new EV research centre in Hatfield will create 450 jobs when it opens in September. Luton Airport (serving North Herts) announces 200 seasonal positions, while Stevenage's Garden House Recruitment reports record demand for cybersecurity specialists.
Business News
Shares in Ocado Group (headquartered in Hatfield) surge 7% after a major US partnership deal. Taylor Wimpey sees shares dip 3% amid interest rate concerns, affecting many Hertfordshire-based employees.
Forecast
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Wednesday (18 June): Thunderstorms, 21°C
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Thursday: Showers, 19°C
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Friday: Sunny intervals, 22°C
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Saturday: Cloudy, 20°C
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Sunday: Light rain, 18°C
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Monday: Sunny spells, 23°C
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Tuesday: Warm sunshine, 25°C
Entertainment News
Knebworth House prepares for its 50th Anniversary Festival (5-6 July) with rs Coldplay. Watford's Colosseum theatre announces an extension of The Lion King run due to unprecedented demand. St Albans Cathedral's open-air cinema season begins this weekend with Barbie.
Upcoming Events in Hertfordshire
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Hatfield House Festival of Music (21-23 June) - Outdoor classical concerts
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Stevenage Festival (28-30 June) - Free community arts event
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Hertford Food & Drink Fair (22 June) - Castle grounds
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Hemel Hempstead Carnival (29 June) - 75th anniversary parade
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St Albans International Organ Festival (1-14 July)
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Letchworth Open Air Theatre (25 June - Much Ado About Nothing)
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Berkhamsted Comedy Festival (5-7 July)
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Tring Classic Car Show (30 June) - Memorial Fields
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Watford FC Community Day (23 June) - Free family activities
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Roald Dahl Museum Summer Fair (6 July, Great Missenden)
Key Features:
✔ Highlighted Hertfordshire's economic strengths (pharma, aerospace, film)
✔ Balanced coverage of urban and rural issues
✔ Included major regional draws (Knebworth, Warner Bros)
✔ Featured both immediate and summer events
✔ Incorporated county's unique commuter belt dynamics
✔ Maintained consistent commercial/cultural balance
For breaking updates follow HertsLive on all platforms.
Editor's Note: This edition particularly focuses on:
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The growing cybersecurity sector in Stevenage
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Commuter belt housing crisis
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Major summer cultural events
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Key general election battlegrounds
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Impacts of London spillover economy
Would you like any additional focus on specific sectors or towns?
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