Demolition of a Watford bank for redevelopment has been approved, with a six-storey replacement on the way.
Ground floor commercial space and 24 flats above can now be built at the former NatWest site in Station Road, opposite Watford Junction.
The borough council’s development management committee signed off on the planning application yesterday evening (June 30), despite Highways’ concern over access for servicing.
There is no room for off street parking to be used when maintaining the property, but council officers had suggested this could be overcome through servicing from Station Road under restricted timings.
During the meeting, councillors highlighted that residents would have quick access to major transport links and the town’s key employment areas.
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It was therefore suggested they should not be “planning pedants” and block building in a good location due to one issue.
Ten of the flats would be one-bedroom, ten would be two-bedroom, and four would be studios.
While a council report found the lack of family housing was “disappointing”, it acknowledged the site is not “best suited” for family accommodation.