“Ambitious” plans to create a “thriving” new neighbourhood in Watford are set to take the next step with the appointment of a development partner.
The ten-year Town Hall Quarter programme is proposed to see new a number of developments in around Watford town hall in Hempstead Road.
The £200 million plans (as of March 2022) being put forward by Watford Borough Council include new homes and a focus on boosting culture and business in the area.
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The developer that will partner with the council to make the scheme a reality is Mace Developments Ltd.
Mace has presented proposals which meet the council’s objectives for “vision and delivery” – although it was the only bidder left in the race after two other candidates withdrew.
If ratified by the council’s Cabinet at a meeting on November 28, Mace will form a 50/50 joint venture partnership with the council in a similar way the council has done to with Kier Property for its Riverwell scheme in Thomas Sawyer Way.
The drawing up of a detailed business plan for the Town Hall Quarter is to be delayed by a year due to the current “uncertainty” in the market.
Key components of Mace’s proposals are homes, a hotel, the relocation of Avenue NHS Clinic to land next to Watford Library, and shops and food/drink establishments.
Other ideas that have also been shared include relocating Watford Museum from Lower High Street and building new employment hubs.
The town hall and Watford Colosseum are already both undergoing energy efficiency improvements and refurbishment.
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Public spaces are also planned and the road system around The Avenues car park is also in line to be altered.
There are no plans to change anything to Watford Leisure Centre Central or the library.
Watford mayor Peter Taylor said previously: “Now, more than ever, it is vital that we remain ambitious for our town and keep investing in Watford.
"These plans not only protect two wonderful Grade II listed buildings but they will also deliver a real boost to our local economy, making Watford a fantastic centre for new and growing businesses as well as culture, arts and entertainment.”
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