Hertfordshire MPs unite to call for Delay on Performing Arts Library Closure

Three Hertfordshire Members of Parliament Andrew Lewin (Welwyn Hatfield), Alistair Strathern (Hitchin), and Kevin Bonavia (Stevenage) have issued a joint letter to Cllr Steve Jarvis, Leader of Hertfordshire County Council, expressing their collective opposition to the proposal to close the Hertfordshire Performing Arts Library (HPAL) in Welwyn Garden City.

The letter follows a request for a review sent by Andrew Lewin MP on 5th May 2026, to which Cllr Jarvis replied that no decision will be made until a meeting of the HCC Cabinet on the 15th of July.

Residents and local arts groups have been in touch to voice their opposition to the closure, which their work relies on. This includes the Thalian Theatre Company, Digswell Players, Welwyn Garden City Orchestra & Chorus, WGC Band and the Choir Group at St Francis Church, Welwyn Garden City.

The MPs are calling for the decision to be delayed at least until local Government reorganisation has been completed.

You can see the MPs letter to Herts County Council here: