Watford's mayor is to take on planning responsibilities for the first time since he was elected in 2018.

Peter Taylor will become more directly involved in planning, recognising it was a "contentious" issue in the recent local elections.

He says he will make sure Watford's local plan - a key planning document that sets out how Watford will grow and develop over the next 15 years - is adopted.

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Mr Taylor said: "I am determined to make sure we have a new local plan in place this year.

"There are many problems with the current system but this will mean that we have a bit more power to oppose taller developments, especially ones that aren’t in key locations such as transport hubs and the town centre."

As he is not on the planning committee, the mayor will not be involved in making decisions on applications.

Watford Observer: Ascot Road development in Watford, which includes the construction of a 24 storey tower. Credit: CortlandAscot Road development in Watford, which includes the construction of a 24 storey tower. Credit: Cortland (Image: Cortland)

However, with his new role, Mr Taylor has "vowed" to keep pressing for changes to national planning rules, which he says have resulted in an "unfair" housing target of around 13,000 for Watford.

The planning portfolio responsibilities had most recently been held by Cllr Stephen Johnson for a year, who took over from retired councillor Iain Sharpe.

Both councillors sat on the planning committee when they were portfolio holders for planning.

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Cllr Johnson, who was re-elected in his Tudor ward earlier this month, is stepping down from the mayor's Cabinet. His other responsibility for housing has been passed to Cllr Jenny Pattinson, who also leads on wellbeing.

Cllr Johnson said: "I am proud to have played my part in reducing rough sleeping in Watford and providing better accommodation for people in temporary accommodation.

"Having served as a Cabinet member for eight years, I have decided that now is the right time for a change."

Watford Observer: The Cabinet, which meets at Watford town hall, is involved in all of the key decisions made at Watford Borough CouncilThe Cabinet, which meets at Watford town hall, is involved in all of the key decisions made at Watford Borough Council (Image: Watford Borough Council)

There are no further changes to the Liberal Democrat-run Cabinet.

Cllr Aga Dychton stays as deputy mayor and leads on community work, while Cllr Ian Stotesbury keeps responsibilities for transport and sustainability.

Cllr Mark Watkin will continue to look after property, resources, and customer service, while Cllr Tim Williams stays as portfolio holder for neighbourhood services. 

Mr Taylor is also responsible for the economy, town centre, regeneration, and communications.

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