Watford Police Station is set to relocate to a modern building in the centre of the town. The new premises at 3 George Street ensures that officers will remain in Watford, following the planned closure of the current station in Clarendon Road. The Hertfordshire Police and Crime Commissioner and Hertfordshire Constabulary have agreed to buy the three-storey building, on the condition planning permission is given for its change of use.
The search for a station was undertaken several years ago as the current building has reached the end of its economic life with high maintenance costs and it is no longer fit for modern policing needs.
David Lloyd, Police and Crime Commissioner for Hertfordshire, who signed off the purchase this week, said: “This is a positive step for those living and working in Watford. It also ensures officers and staff will benefit from having modern fit-for-purpose facilities in this new station.
“Throughout this process it has been crucial to find a suitable property which maintains a police station in the town centre.
“The location means it is close to the High Street ensuring officer foot patrols can be conducted easily, while it is also close to the ring road enabling a rapid vehicle response.
“The new site also has provision for a front counter service to be maintained. It will also mean more environmentally friendly measures can be installed such as charging points for electric vehicles.”
Dean stated, "I meet regularly with the Police and Crime Commissioner, and during one of our recent meetings we discussed the possibility of upgrading the police provision in Watford to ensure a station fit for the 21st Century with space to take the increased number of police officers provided through the police uplift programme. I am looking forward to following progress closely and welcoming officers to the new station next year".
Chief Constable Charlie Hall added: “The facilities at Watford Police Station no longer meet the requirements of a modern police service and this move presents the force with many exciting opportunities. The location of the new station is also ideal and will ensure that we maintain our strong visible presence in the town and surrounding areas.”
A planning application has been submitted to Watford Borough Council to seek permission to use the building as a police station, rather than the previous office use. If it is successful, work will be undertaken internally to make the property fit for use, with it expected to open in a year’s time.
Once the move is agreed, ways of disposing of the Clarendon Road site will be explored to ensure the maximum amount of money is generated to enable it be put back in to policing in Hertfordshire.
