Planning consent to deliver a mixed-use development by GS8 in Watford has been granted by Watford Borough Council.
The 4,338 sqm site is located within the Watford Junction regeneration masterplan on St Albans Road and is only 10 minutes from Watford Junction station, which is set to undergo a major redevelopment.
Comprising four buildings, ranging from three to 11 storeys, the development will feature a mix of one, two and three-bedroom properties, 78% which will be available for private sale, with 22% affordable, (of which 69% affordable rent, 19% social rent and 12% shared ownership).
Ben Spencer, Director at GS8, said: “We are delighted to be delivering the first phase of the much-anticipated Watford Junction Masterplan - and our first of two major regeneration schemes in the town. Over the past two years we have acquired a number of sites to enable this scheme to come forward, undergoing a significant design process with the council and residents to ensure that we deliver a scheme in line with the aspirations and hopes of the local community.
“The supply and demand fundamentals which persist in Watford clearly demonstrate the need for new affordable housing, which is why 25% of our development will be available for affordable and social rent with a small element of shared ownership. Alongside our diversified residential offer, we are looking forward to regenerating this currently underutilised site by supporting the local community and providing a range of new facilities.”
The site will include c. 330 sqm of commercial space, with 19 car parking spaces including seven car club bays, cycle parking, and a children’s play area, with improved public realm access and landscaping.
In addition, the Grade-II listed Old Station House, formerly the royal waiting room for rail travel for Queen Adelaide, Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, which will be converted into an artisan tap room and community exhibition space, bringing the last remaining brewery, Pope’s Yard, back to Watford.
Peter Jeffree, Chair of Watford Borough Council’s Development Management Committee, said: “This announcement marks the beginning of our Watford Junction Masterplan and we are pleased with the new proposal from GS8, which will greatly enhance a somewhat run-down part of the local area and set the tone for future regeneration work.”
GS8 intends to start on site by the end of 2018, with phase one expected to complete towards the end of 2020.
