Developers in the district are set to contribute £1.2 million to community projects as part of an obligation linked to their planning permission.

A legal agreement between local authorities and developers called a Section 106 requires developers to compensate for the impact of their development in the community through a ‘positive contribution’ to the surrounding area.

Nearly £750,000 of the £1,212 million raised has already been committed to various projects across the district, including £44,128 towards the Victoria Playing Fields project in Verulam ward.

The biggest contribution of £586,628 will be put towards the new Town Hall Museum and Art Gallery and the athletics track at Westminster Lodge.

The district council has earmarked approximately £50,000 for the revamp of the Verulamium Park play area but that has not yet been confirmed.

About £400,000 has yet to be committed by the council and the Harpenden wards still have to agree where funds should be allocated.

St Stephen and Park Street wards are also in discussion about where their allocated funds should be spent.

Council leader and portfolio holder for planning, Cllr Julian Daly, said: “We want to make the best possible use of this S106 money and that means involving people in the wards concerned. They know the local area and what is needed.

“We continue to meet with ward Councillors to let them know what is available and to listen to their ideas. The interest of town and parish councils is very welcome as they know their communities.”

For a breakdown of the money available in each ward see here.