Connect to Work launches in Herts

Connect to Work - a transformative programme that supports adults with disabilities, health conditions, or complex barriers to meaningful employment - is now open for applications.

Delivered locally by Step2Skills, this Government funded programme is part of a nationwide effort to reduce economic inactivity and promote inclusive workplaces.

Hertfordshire businesses of all sizes are invited to participate and benefit from:

• Recruitment support and job matching
• Guidance on inclusive practices and reasonable adjustments
• Ongoing collaboration with Employment Specialists
• Enhanced productivity and workplace culture

Sustainability for Growth workshop

Sustainability may feel like a buzzword, but it’s a business imperative. Yet most UK SMEs are missing out:

• SMEs are responsible for up to 53% of the UK's business-related emissions, yet only 4% have calculated their carbon footprint.
• Only 43% of mid-sized firms have set sustainability targets, despite 98% recognising the benefits of them.

Join our free workshop on 13th November, hosted in partnership with Hertfordshire Growth Hub and Sustainable X, to explore how sustainability can drive growth, attract talent, and future-proof your business.

Attendees will receive a one-to-one follow-up session with Sustainable X to help turn plans to action.

Apply for the Create Growth Programme

The screen industries are booming in Hertfordshire, and behind every blockbuster is an army of small businesses powering the production from behind the scenes.

In Hertfordshire, the Create Growth Programme provides tools, insights, and high-value connections to help businesses from all sectors secure commercial opportunities within Film & TV. It comprises:

1. A scale and growth assessment
2. The Supply Chain Innovation Programme (with the next cohort starting on 26th January)
3. New product development support
4. Investment readiness support

£3.9bn Hertsmere data centre deal announced

DC01UK's 8.5 hectare Hertsmere data centre site has been sold to Equinix, one of the world’s largest data centre companies and operators. The deal represents one of the largest infrastructure and real estate transactions in the world in recent years.

The deal lays the foundation for one of Europe’s largest and most advanced data centre campuses, which will drive the next wave of cloud and AI innovation. The 'Hertfordshire campus' will:

• deliver over 2m sq. ft. of cutting-edge data centre space to meet current and future demand for data, storage, and AI-powered services.
• support thousands of skilled jobs nationwide through the wider digital supply chain and contribute billions to the UK economy.
• set the bar for green infrastructure in Hertfordshire, aligning with our Clean Growth ambitions.
• open up exciting possibilities for digital media, post-production, and virtual production, further strengthening our creative industries and screen sector.

Three major developments bolster Herts' screen sector

Three key developments are set to significantly enhance the region’s creative landscape, reinforcing its status as a global hub for film and television production.

These include the expansion of world-class facilities at Sky Studios Elstree, the development of Fairbanks Studios, and MBS Group's partnership with Elstree Studios. The developments will support inward investment, and create jobs, skills, and supply chain opportunities across the county.

From facilitating planning and partnerships to nurturing talent and networks, our involvement - and that of our Hertfordshire Film Office - has helped ensure these projects are rooted in local opportunity.

Herts IQ enterprise zone updates

HEMEL GARDEN COMMUNITIES
With the St Albans and Dacorum Local Plans aiming for adoption in Spring 2026, joint hearings are now underway to assess strategic growth at Hemel Garden Communities (pictured), a key location within Herts IQ.

These plans will help unlock future opportunities for sustainable development, innovation, and job creation across the Herts IQ area.

MAYLANDS GATEWAY
Prologis has completed the final phase of its Maylands Gateway development - part of the Herts IQ innovation corridor. With five new logistics units built and three already let, including to Aerospheres and Biomel, the site is becoming a hub for sustainable innovation and advanced logistics.

Prologis’ investment in transport links and potential training facilities further strengthens Herts IQ’s role in shaping the future of logistics and green growth in Hertfordshire.

MAYLANDS PROPERTY MARKET
In Maylands, home to Herts IQ, the industrial and logistics market continues to outperform expectations with strong demand and significant lettings.

However, office space remains subdued, with many businesses repurposing sites for industrial use. This shift reinforces Herts IQ’s focus on supporting high-growth sectors and adapting to changing business needs across the region.