Welcome to the second edition of the Business Directory for St Albans City and District. Whilst the City and District Council has had a directory of local businesses on its website for a considerable period, the increasing demand from local businesses for a hard copy prompted the council to issue this second edition. This builds on the information and contacts in the first edition of 2003.

Globally St Albans is known for its rich and unique history and as a very attractive location for visitors and tourists. There has been recent evidence of private sector confidence in the area including £2.5m investment in refurbishing two major car parks in the City. In addition there are plans for a new cinema, residential and retail complex in the City Centre.

The retail mix of independent shops and high street names located in both purpose-built shopping centres and traditional period buildings gives an inviting backdrop to the long established market held each Wednesday and Saturday. Harpenden complements this centre where a thriving town atmosphere has been maintained and smaller centres in the historic centres of Wheathampstead, Redbourn, London Colney, Sandridge, Bricket Wood, and Colney Heath also have unique offers. I hope that you will find this guide a useful companion to the business pages on the council's website.

Cllr Melvyn Teare,
Portfolio Holder for Heritage, Arts and Tourism
www.stalbans.gov.uk