Flagship Watford projects have hit roadblocks after vital funding was thrown into doubt.

The borough council will review a delivery plan's progress on Monday, September 2, offering the latest look at how major schemes are coming along. 

The Colosseum reopening, Town Hall revamp, and Innovation Hub are all marked as 'challenges' or 'potential risks' in an online document ahead of the meeting - due to their reliance on over £16 million of Levelling Up money.

Watford mayor Peter Taylor said: “The previous government agreed funding for the Colosseum and Innovation Hub, but had not released this before the general election.

“While we’re hopeful the promised funding will come through after the government’s review on the Levelling Up Fund, we’re considering our plans to ensure the best path forward.”

Delivering the Innovation and Incubation Hub (IIH), a town hall space to help Watford businesses launch or grow, appears to have stalled.

Watford mayor Peter Taylor and then-MP Dean Russell were thrilled when the funding was announced last year.Watford mayor Peter Taylor and then-MP Dean Russell were thrilled when the funding was announced last year.

The delivery plan progress update says: “Until the position is confirmed by the government members have agreed to not proceed with the planned IIH feasibility work.

“However, the council continues to engage at all levels of government to secure the funds.”

Completing the refurbishment of the Town Hall, which will provide a new home for Watford Museum, is apparently still set to go ahead but the plans are being "reviewed" with the council’s contractor.

Specifically, they are discussing “how best to proceed given the current uncertainty relating to Levelling Up funding”. The document added that senior officers are in talks with the government, highlighting the benefits of the investment.

The project to refurbish the Colosseum and bring it back into use was described as having ‘potential risks/some uncertainty’, but this apparently related to “risk inherent with refurbishing a heritage building” rather than the money.

How Watford Colosseum is planned to look. How Watford Colosseum is planned to look. (Image: Watford Borough Council)

The mayor added: “Although the creation of an Innovation Hub, which would boost Watford’s economy and employment rates, is entirely reliant on Levelling Up funding, the Colosseum project will be delivered.

“It’s vital to Watford’s heritage and future, contributing nearly £2 million annually to our local economy. With global venue operator AEG Presents managing the venue upon reopening, it is a big vote of confidence in Watford and our multimillion investment in the iconic venue.

“We’re also prioritising the museum’s move to the Town Hall, which will better showcase our rich history and are seeking funding support from the National Heritage Lottery Fund to ensure this can be delivered.

“For a project as significant as the Town Hall Quarter, we must stay adaptable and prepared for any challenges, and we are.”

Town Hall Quarter CGI.Town Hall Quarter CGI. (Image: Watford Borough Council)