A major overhaul of a popular shopping parade has been proposed as part of an enhancement project in north Watford.

The plan to renovate the “shabby” area in front of the Goodwood Parade is on course to be carried out this summer following the launch of a public consultation.

Nascot Councillor Mark Watkin confirmed that funding to carry out the project has now been secured thanks to a combination of money acquired from local developers and Herts County Council’s highways fund.

The proposals include resurfacing the pedestrian area in front of the parade and installing new street furniture including cycle stands, parking bays, and rail fencing around grass areas in Goodwood Avenue.

Florist Amie Bone has also agreed to fund and maintain planters for the Courtlands Drive precinct.

Nascot Cllr Mark Watkin said: “This parade is located in one of the prime routes to Harry Potter World but the area in front of the shops has looked shabby for far too long.

“We want to make it as welcoming as possible so that people want to stop and shop. This scheme will make a huge difference and hopefully stimulate shopkeepers to renovate their premises as well.”

North Watford Cllr Asif Khan was happy to see the improvements.

"I'm glad that the work to improve the parade is now going ahead in August," he said. 

"I've worked hard with local residents to get the area a well deserved makeover.

"A lot of the funding has come from developments within the Leggatts area as well as the county council highways budget for North Watford, and it is good that residents from the area will benefit from it."

The closing date for the consultation is Monday July 31. Residents can comment on the design by email or letter