Discussions on the future of Watford police station have reached an “advanced stage”.

In May we revealed plans to knock down the existing building on Shady Lane, along with the redundant magistrates’ court, to make way for 55 flats.

READ MORE: Plans afoot for new police station near Watford town hall

These plans form part of a joint proposal for the future of the station, submitted by consultants on behalf of the Ministry of Justice, the office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), and Hertfordshire Constabulary.

The hope is to make more efficient use of police buildings, sharing with local councils and using the estate to provide the best value to the public.

The office of the PCC stressed that there would be a “major police station in Watford at all points through this process”, adding that the intention was to move to a new building adjacent to the town hall. 

David Lloyd, PCC for Hertfordshire, said: “Plans are progressing and we’re having very positive discussions with the constabulary, the mayor, and the Ministry of Justice about the future of the police station in Watford.

“Our hope is to relocate the station to a new, purpose-built building alongside the town hall, which will provide state-of-the-art policing facilities in the centre of Watford.

“In line with my community safety and criminal justice plan, there will be a major police station in each of the 10 districts of Hertfordshire, and Watford is no different. This is a really exciting opportunity for local partners to work together and I’m pleased to see things moving forward.”