Dacorum

Dacorum is a local government district and non-metropolitan borough in Hertfordshire, England. It is governed by Dacorum Borough Council, with the council’s headquarters in Hemel Hempstead. The district forms part of the county and works in conjunction with Hertfordshire County Council to provide local and regional services.

The district was established on 1 April 1974 under the Local Government Act 1972, by merging the Hemel Hempstead Municipal Borough with surrounding rural areas, including parts of the Berkhamsted Rural District. It borders Buckinghamshire to the west and comprises a mix of urban centers and rural communities.

Geographically, Dacorum covers the western part of Hertfordshire. Its principal towns are Hemel Hempstead, Berkhamsted, Tring and Kings Langley, alongside numerous villages and small settlements. The western portion includes part of the Chiltern Hills and the Ashridge Estate, an area of countryside and woodland managed largely by the National Trust. The Grand Union Canal and rail links contribute to the district’s connectivity.

Economy and transport in Dacorum are characterized by commuter links to London and the Midlands. Hemel Hempstead serves as the district’s principal retail and service hub, while Berkhamsted and Tring retain market-town character. Transport infrastructure includes access to the West Coast Main Line and major roads such as the M25 and A41.

Notable features within the district include the Ashridge Estate, Berkhamsted Castle and various parks, country houses and historic villages. The district’s governance focuses on planning, housing, waste management and local environmental health, with education and social services provided in partnership with Hertfordshire County Council. See also: Dacorum Borough Council; List of districts in Hertfordshire.