Living in St Albans

The St Albans District is a pleasant area of Hertfordshire, just 20 miles from central London, with excellent road and rail links to London and the rest of Britain.

The District’s population, of about 130,000, is based mainly in St Albans, Harpenden, Wheathampstead, Colney Heath, London Colney, Redbourn, Park Street, Chiswell Green and Bricket Wood. House prices are among the highest in Britain, and rates of deprivation are among the lowest.

Hertfordshire is the most densely populated county in the UK and continuing housing development is a sensitive issue, as is the lack of affordable housing. The proximity of London is important with many thousands of people commuting to work in the capital. There is however a strong local business economy, based mostly on offices, small businesses, shopping and tourism.

St Albans itself is a modern city shaped by over 2,000 years of development. In Roman times, when it was known as Verulamium, it was one of the most important towns in Britain. This has left the city with a rich archaeological heritage, much of which remains to be explored. This heritage, along with the city’s ancient cathedral, makes St Albans an increasingly popular tourist destination.

People in St Albans City and District know what a great place it is in which to live. It is attractive and prosperous, with a well-educated population, good housing and a strong sense of community.

A 2003/04 MORI report showed that around 60% of residents were satisfied with the way the Council provides its services. The Council intends to increase this level of satisfaction and clearly this will be one of your priorities.

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