New fencing and security patrols have been spotted at a former hotel site.

The Mercure Hotel, by the A41 in Bushey, is set to be knocked down for five warehouses to be built, after plans were previously approved by Hertsmere Borough Council.

Last week, locals using the A41 noticed that fences had been put up around the hotel site and security guards were apparently patrolling around it.

The Watford Observer can confirm that the business or businesses occupying the building are currently in the process of vacating it and security measures have been put in place to secure the site while it is unoccupied.

Watford Observer: The former Mercure Hotel site, by the A41 near Bushey.The former Mercure Hotel site, by the A41 near Bushey. (Image: Google Street View)

This is set to remain the case until the hotel is knocked down “in due course”, the Observer understands.

Under the latest approved proposal, 30,000 square metres of logistics space (more than the area of four football pitches) is set to be created.

As well as the hotel, some neighbouring buildings and an area of woodland would also be knocked down and built over.