Lib Dem led developments win big at Civic Society awards!

Two projects delivered by the Liberal Democrat administration at St Albans District Council have been recognised for the positive contributions they have made to the local community, at the 2026 St Albans Civic Society awards.

One of these is The Hedges (in Batchwood): a new development of 12 much-needed and sustainably designed social homes. These combine six family homes with six flats, all of which are fitted with renewable energy measures such as solar panels and air source heat pumps.

The Hedges received the social housing award, and was praised for the way it “combines good craftsmanship, practical living space and environmental responsibility”.

The second is the Jubilee Square development: a project inherited from the previous council administration, which the Liberal Democrats re-designed to combine vital social and affordable housing with commercial spaces to attract new tenants, and boost footfall on our high streets. These tenants now include Co-Space, two large financial firms, Being wellness centre and Darlish Ice Cream.

This project received the commercial/residential/mixed use award, recognising its role in “bringing a range of activities together and establishing the framework for a lively, connected neighbourhood, and enriching city-centre life.”

Paul de Kort, Liberal Democrat leader of St Albans District Council, said:

“It’s a real honour to have these projects recognised for the positive impact they have had on our local area.

“We Lib Dems have been clear in our determination to deliver the affordable and social homes we need across the St Albans district, back our fantastic local businesses, and protect the environment in doing so.

“Both of these projects are examples of how we’re delivering on those goals: providing for local communities, offering commercial space to drive footfall and further boost local business, and always ensuring that these are built in a sustainable manner.

“These remain our priorities and we’ll continue to drive these forward. A big thank you to the St Albans Civic Society for recognising our efforts.”