Proposal for 19-storey co-living project by Watford Junction

Watford Observer readers may be aware of Kosy Living’s plans to build a 363-flat co-living space where Apex House currently stands, in Bridle Path, which are currently under consideration.

A separate co-living space plan, from a different developer, has now gone in for a site just over the road, the demolished former Clarendon House between Bridle Path and the footpath from St Albans Road to Watford Junction.

Kitchen amenity space at re:shape's ARK Wembley location. (Image: reshape)

Co-living company re:shape and joint applicant Ideal Holding Group have explained that its newly entered 210-bedroom design is primarily aimed at single workers aged 20 to 40, offering an unusual style of accommodation.

If plans are approved, the rooms would likely cost between £1,300 and £1,500 with all bills paid for, including council tax and internet. They are designed smaller than traditional studios and will only have a small over-top setup for cooking, with the idea being that residents would sleep in the bedrooms but “live” in the development’s communal areas.

Indicative view of the proposal. (Image: Claridge Architects) Most of the cooking would be done in shared kitchens, residents and non-residents alike would use co-working spaces, and amenities space - including a rooftop terrace - would be available on the top floor.

Re:shape co-founder Jermaine Browne was keen to highlight community benefits it wants to offer, which includes meeting with groups who could use the proposals’ free of charge meeting and event spaces.

There are also plans to offer support to local people trying to launch their own businesses, ringfencing £120,000 to support 12 locals' business ideas and giving them free access to the workspaces.

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(Image: Claridge Architects)

No resident parking would be provided as part of the development.

Asked about how construction vehicles would be able to reach the site, which is down a narrow road in a densely packed and busy area, he explained that permission for access through the Holiday Inn Express site has been agreed.

This would also apparently avoid a clash with routes for the nearby Kosy Living scheme, if both received planning permission.

CGI image showing how the Kosy Living development would look, from Station Road. (Image: Kosy Living/CKC Properties, Watford Borough Council planning portal.) Mr Browne said: “We’ve worked hard and in collaboration with the council, Watford communities and charities to devise a scheme that not only enhances the local built environment through best-in-class architecture, but delivers genuine and tangible long-term benefits to the local community.

"We are excited to be delivering a scheme that will prioritise the housing needs of locals and key workers, boost social housing delivery via a financial contribution, and provide free to use co-working and events spaces for charities, SMEs and groups."

Wembley ARK amenity space. (Image: Claridge Architects)