We received more than 100 responses, with shops and leisure activities overwhelming the debate.
Here are some of the comments and suggestions we received:
Shops
By far the most prominent topic of conversation among residents was shops.
A continuous theme was the desire to see a wider variety of stores, with many complaining at the prevalence of charity shops, eateries and salons.
One resident said they would like to see “some shops other than nail bars, hairdressers coffee shops and gyms”.
“Welwyn Garden City needs decent big name shops in the Howard Centre.” (Image: Danny Loo Photography)
Similarly, another asked for “proper shops” in place of the population of service-based units currently on offer.
As well as a wider diversity of options, many called for household-name brands to come to the town, with one commenter asserting: “Welwyn Garden City needs decent big name shops in the Howard Centre.”
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More than ten responses mentioned the lack of Primark, with hopefuls currently having to make the trip up the A1(M) to Stevenage to visit the retailer.
More so, six responses clamoured for Marks & Spencer to return after the Howard Centre branch closed in April 2022.
As well as big names, five also called for more independent shops – “enough to please everyone”.
The lack of men’s clothing options was also noted by three, with one claiming: “I don’t think I could name menswear shop in the town”.
Leisure
Another hot topic was the leisure facilities on offer in the town.
Indoor swimming was high up the list of priorities, with one comment noting “it’s a pain having to go to Hatfield or Stevenage” to visit one, and five others agreeing they would like to see a new pool built.
Ten-pin bowling also proved a popular choice – “wow about a bowling alley in the Howard Centre with a nice bar?” one asked, backed by seven others.
Currently, Welwyn Garden City residents must travel to Stevenage or Hatfield for indoor swimming. (Image: Google Maps)
Taking it one step further, another response suggested a “proper food and entertainment hub” at the site of the old M&S.
They said: “Think Boxpark/Borough Market vibe mixed with bowling, games, bars, events and live music – a real social centre for daytime and evenings.”
BID plans
The call-out to residents to have their say comes after the town’s Business Improvement District (BID) recently shared its plans for 2026 with the Welwyn Hatfield Times.
The BID said the changing landscape of town centres around the country means retail-focussed high streets are evolving into more diverse mixes of hospitality, leisure and experience-led businesses.
People are increasingly seeking food, culture, and social spaces alongside traditional shopping.
According to the BID, plans are “progressing” to develop the Howard Centre’s leisure and hospitality offer, which it says will create new reasons for people to visit and spend time in the town centre.
Further updates from the Howard Centre are expected in the new year.
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