The escalating cost of converting the former C&A store in Watford has led Clements' department store to shelve plans to relocate.

Clements chairman Mr Jamie Rankin announced the change in plans to staff in a letter, followed by a meeting, on Wednesday morning.

In the letter, Mr Rankin says Clements will not be moving to Charter Place "because the cost of converting the store, particularly the basement, has risen to a level that no longer makes the project a viable proposition for the company. There has also been a delay in obtaining the consents we require from the council".

Business will continue in the present store in The Parade.