About the Borough
Film Studios
The borough boasts a rich cinematic heritage, earning the nickname “British Hollywood” due to its prominence in the film industry. The iconic studios on Shenley Road were the birthplace of numerous celebrated films, including The Dam Busters (1955), Moby Dick (1956), Summer Holiday (1963), The Shining (1980), and Star Wars (1977), along with its sequels. The studios also hosted parts of the Indiana Jones series, cementing their legacy as a cornerstone of British filmmaking. Though their scale has diminished over time, the studios found a new lease of life in television, hosting shows like Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? and Big Brother.
Elstree is also home to the BBC Elstree Centre, a site of national significance currently owned by the BBC. This facility houses the iconic outdoor set of EastEnders and, until 2021, was the filming location for the popular medical drama Holby City. Beyond these productions, the BBC Elstree Centre has been the venue for some of the broadcaster’s most ambitious studio projects, including Children in Need, Comic Relief, and coverage of the BBC’s 2015 General Election broadcast.
Metropolitan Green Belt
Hertsmere is a vibrant borough in Hertfordshire, known for its unique blend of urban convenience and rural charm. Located just 12 miles northwest of Central London, it benefits from excellent transport links, making it an attractive place to live, work, and visit.
The borough encompasses several towns and villages, including Borehamwood, Potters Bar, Bushey, Radlett, and Shenley. Borehamwood is celebrated for its rich film and television history as the home of iconic studios.
Hertsmere enjoys a diverse and thriving community, with a population of approximately 110,000 residents (as of 2021). The borough is also notable for its high-quality schools, a mix of independent and state institutions, making it a popular choice for families.
The natural environment is another defining feature, with 80% of the borough designated as Green Belt land. Residents and visitors can explore an array of parks, woodlands, and open spaces, such as Aldenham Country Park and Shenley Park, offering a peaceful escape from urban life.
Governed by Hertsmere Borough Council, the area takes pride in its strong cultural heritage, community spirit, and modern amenities. From its bustling town centres to its serene countryside, Hertsmere strikes an appealing balance, making it a desirable location in Hertfordshire.
The Metropolitan Green Belt surrounding Hertsmere is a vital part of the borough’s identity, offering scenic landscapes, protected open spaces, and a rich natural heritage. Designed to curb urban sprawl and preserve rural splendour, the Green Belt ensures that the area maintains a harmonious balance between development and nature.
The protected zone encompasses rolling countryside, woodlands, and meadows, creating a haven for wildlife and a retreat for residents seeking outdoor leisure. Iconic sites within Hertsmere’s Green Belt include Aldenham Country Park, known for its picturesque lake and family-friendly activities, and Scratchwood, a cherished woodland area perfect for walking and picnics. The Green Belt also supports traditional farming, reinforcing the community’s connection to its rural roots.
Beyond its aesthetic and recreational appeal, the Green Belt plays a critical role in environmental sustainability. It helps improve air quality, mitigates the urban heat island effect, and provides vital habitats for local biodiversity. For residents of Hertsmere, it is not just a boundary—it is a treasured resource, offering both tranquillity and a sense of continuity amidst an ever-growing urban landscape.
Key Contacts
For a confidential discussion about this role, please contact the following consultants at our recruitment partner, Tile Hill, who will be happy to answer any questions that are not covered here:
Louise Haines
Research Consultant
07798630382
Louise.Haines@tile-hill.co.uk