I hope that you and your loved ones have enjoyed a good Christmas break. I am really grateful to all of those people who continue to provide vital services throughout the festive period - carers, NHS staff, police officers, transport and distribution workers and many others.

As I look to the year ahead, there are three things at the top of my wish list.

The first is securing funding for the redevelopment of Watford General Hospital. We all know that NHS staff have shown incredible determination, perseverance and care throughout this pandemic. Watford Borough Council has consistently supported this project – enabling better access to our hospital and space for bigger and better facilities. Central government must now provide the funding needed for the over-due redevelopment of Watford General to happen.

When I first became Watford’s Mayor, the Mayor of London pulled the plug on plans to extend the Met Line to Watford Junction. Work has continued looking at alternative schemes and in 2022 I will do everything I can to support a viable link from West Watford to Watford Junction.

My third wish is see Watford’s unfair housing target cut. We all accept that there will be new homes in the town but local people must have the power to reject inappropriate, over-development. I will fight for the whole planning system to be changed so that it is led by local residents, not developers.

Whatever your resolutions are for 2022, I hope that you have a healthy and happy year.

  • Peter Taylor is Elected Mayor of Watford