This area of Borehamwood is referred to by long-time residents as Well End or Cowley Hill. Straddling between northern Borehamwood and the great grasslands of the Green Belt, the majority of the area is wide open green space. What there is of residential space is filled by families in comfortable semi-detached or terrace homes, a few schools including Hertswood Academy, and a general sense of community. What’s more, its proximity to the green open fields gives it a strong rural feeling that makes for a great walk and picnic. For the commuters, who make up the majority of the population here, this is definitely an appealing luxury.

Existing as a small collection of rural communities since the Roman invasion of Britain, the area of Borehamwood remained little but farms for several hundreds of years, whilst its neighbour of Elstree established a more coherent village character. However, in the 20th century, the arrival of the entertainment industry and post-war social housing development meant that Borehamwood finally overtook Elstree in terms of population. However, despite Borehamwood’s relatively modern character, Well End pub, The Lord Nelson, which was previously known as Mops and Brooms, has been there since 1841 and local legend has it that it was once the sight of a battle between travellers and village folk.

Interestingly, during the Second World War, a redundant factory in Borehamwood became a top-secret location for the development of air-related weapon and computer development. They even designed surface to air guided missiles and code- breaking technology for GCHQ.

Key issues plaguing the local population as of late revolve primarily around the housing crisis that many commuter-towns are now facing as their populations continue to rise. This is also complicated by the fact that 80% of the entire borough is part of the Green Belt, meaning that development is restricted. Two similarly related issues are local complaints about the travelling community and concerns about care for the elderly.

As previously stated, Green Belt protection ensures that developments are somewhat limited in this area. One of the key developments includes the creation of 58 new homes and a brand-new primary school on Potters Lane near Cowley Hill.