High streets are always changing as new business take over and developers head in to build apartments.

Here, we round-up four new looks that we could expect to see in upcoming months in and near Watford.

New flats
The first floor above Nando’s, Crispy Dosa and the vacant Jimmy’s world kitchen is set to be turned into eight apartments of 50 square metres.

Watford Observer: Jimmy's World Kitchen frontage in 2019Jimmy's World Kitchen frontage in 2019 (Image: Google Street View)

It was given conditional planning permission on May 11, with one condition that the existing entrance facing onto the road must remain a commercial unit.

The flats would therefore be accessed via an entrance off Smith Street.

Pedestrian-friendly high street
In March, the Three Rivers District Council confirmed that Rickmansworth High Street is to remain pedestrian-friendly for a further 18 months.

Watford Observer: Rickmansworth High StreetRickmansworth High Street (Image: Three Rivers District Council)

It means that motor vehicle restriction will apply Monday – Friday 10am – 6pm, and Saturday 10am – Monday 6am along High Street.

The restrictions will be reviewed in six months.

The scheme started in June 2020 to allow for the ease of social distancing.

New business
Santander bank used to be in 107 to 109 High Street unit in Rickmansworth but has been vacant since it closed in July 2021.

Watford Observer: Rickmansworth High Street Santander branch in 2015.Rickmansworth High Street Santander branch in 2015. (Image: Google Street View)

As of last week, it was placed under offer, according to property agents Perry Holt.

The business looking to open in the town is not known at this early stage, but the Watford Observer understands it will be a commercial business filling the high street building.

Longer opening hours
The JD Wetherspoon pub, The Moon Under Water has asked Watford Borough Council if it can stay open for an extra 30 minutes until 12:30am on Sunday nights.

Watford Observer: The Moon Under Water wants to open for an extra 30 minutes on Sundays. Picture: Google Street View/CanvaThe Moon Under Water wants to open for an extra 30 minutes on Sundays. Picture: Google Street View/Canva

It is allowed to open from 7am each day before closing at 1am on Monday to Thursday nights and 1.30am on Friday and Saturday nights.

The application is currently “pending consideration”.