Watford Borough Council has granted planning consent for the first phase of its £1.6 billion regeneration masterplan for Watford Junction. When complete, the masterplan will create 75,000 sqm of commercial space, 6,000 sqm of retail, just under 3,000 dwellings, two primary schools and a range of community uses.
The 4,338 sqm first phase, located in a prime position on St Albans Road, will be developed by GS8, the design-led residential and commercial property developer, and will comprise a 146 unit, mixed-use development. Work is scheduled to start on site by the end of 2018, with phase one expected to complete towards the end of 2020.
In addition, Berkeley Homes is undergoing public consultation for a separate site in the area at St Albans Quarter, reflecting a growing confidence in Watford among developers.
Nick Fenwick, Deputy Managing Director of Place Shaping and Corporate Performance, Watford Borough Council, said: “This development marks the beginning of our Watford Junction Masterplan and will set the tone for future regeneration work. We are committed to transforming Watford into a place where current residents and future generations can call home and where local businesses thrive.
“The current site overall has a mixture of uses and land ownership and there is a firm commitment to regenerating and developing this area, including future improvements to the station. There will be some landmark buildings including several taller buildings over 20 storeys closer to the station.
“GS8 have done a tremendous job in bringing together a number of land owners and driving the development forward. Similarly, Berkeley Homes have started in earnest with its community consultation and we will be working very closely with them to shape the scheme.”
Ben Spencer, Director at GS8, commented: “We are delighted to be delivering the first phase of the much-anticipated Watford Junction Masterplan. There is a need for new affordable housing in Watford which is why 25% of the development will be available for affordable and social rent with a small element of shared ownership.”
GS8 St Albans Road development
The GS8 St Albans Road development of one, two and three-bedroom properties, comprising four buildings, ranging from three to 11 storeys, will have integrated features that will enable residents to reduce their carbon footprint and save money on bills.
The site will include c. 330 sqm of commercial space, 16 car parking spaces including 10 car club bays, cycle parking, and a children’s play area, with improved public realm access and landscaping.
The Grade-II listed Old Station House – formerly the waiting room for rail travel which saw the likes of Queen Adelaide, Queen Victoria and Prince Albert pass through its doors – will be converted into an artisan tap room and community exhibition space, bringing one of the town’s last remaining breweries, Pope’s Yard, back to Watford.
