Plans to demolish Watford factory for nearly 100 flats

The plans to redevelop the Fleet Laboratories site in Rickmansworth Road were submitted to Watford Borough Council this week.

The applicant wants to demolish two commercial buildings near the junction with Metropolitan Station Approach and build 94 flats.

The homes would be within three blocks of five storeys and include 35 one-bed, 45 two-bed, and 14 three-bed flats.

Seven of the three-bedroom properties are proposed to be affordable, but the scheme fails to meet the council's affordable housing provision of 35 per cent. A viability assessment has been submitted which the planning agent says explains why the provision cannot be met.

Read more: Plans for 193 flats at Watford car showroom submitted

The development site is outlined in red. Credit: Google Maps (Image: Google Maps)

The plans also include a community garden, outdoor play area, 46 parking spaces and 159 cycle spaces.

A public consultation was held at Watford Grammar School for Boys in April, which around 40 people attended.

A planning statement on behalf of applicant Dendron Properties describes the current site as "outdated and underutilised" with the plans providing an "opportunity to contribute to the building of a sustainable community”.

Read more: Woman ‘punched unconscious and robbed by taxi driver’ after Watford night out

The site is home to Fleet Laboratories, which operates product development and manufacturing services for the pharmaceutical and toiletry markets.

It was a trading division of DDD Ltd - DDD went into administration in 2020 before being sold to Dendron Brands, a company controlled by Phoenix Labs.

Read more: Jobs saved as buyer is found for company that went into administration

The plans can be found on the planning portal via reference 22/00958/FULM.

Have you got a story for us? You can contact us here.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to keep up with all the latest news.

To receive breaking news alerts or newsletters sign up here.