A DECISION to allow a three-storey block of flats to be built in Hempstead Road has been met with disappointment and confusion.

The scheme, which will provide 47 sheltered flats for the elderly, was passed on appeal by the Planning Inspectorate, having been refused permission twice by Watford Borough Council.

Councillors, council officers and English Heritage all agreed the design of the proposed building was inappropriate and of poor quality.

All thought the proposal, which will sit adjacent to a conservation area at numbers 63 to 67, should be refused.

The council's development control committee unanimously voted to reject it in July last year.

However, the applicants, McCarthy and Stone (Developments) Ltd, decided to appeal against the decision to the inspector.

Local residents, councillors and officers spoke against the appeal at a public hearing in January, but the inspector found in favour of the applicant.

For reaction to this decision see tomorrow's Watford Observer.