Plans for a tower block that will plunge nearby houses “into darkness” have been met with strong opposition after a 23-storey high-rise was approved on the same road.

Central Watford Liberal Democrat councillors are leading the campaign against the proposed replacement of a five-storey 1980s office building at 50 Clarendon Road. 

In its place would stand a five to 17-storey building, containing office space and 100 homes, 33 of which would be affordable.

So far the Lib Dems have collected more than 100 signatures from residents in Estcourt, Sotheron and St John’s Road opposing the plans.

Charles Hids, of St Johns Road, said: “Currently the tallest building on Clarendon road is six to seven storeys tall. The new TJ Maxx building near the Junction will be 12 storeys.

“A 17-storey building will set a dangerous precedent. Every other developer on Clarendon Road will want to build 17 storey tall buildings.

“I live in a conservation area that will be plunged into darkness from midday as the sun disappears behind a 17-storey monstrosity.”

Nicola Elsmore-Cary, of Westland Road, argued the development would push already strained public services beyond breaking point.

She said: “We’re at capacity in central Watford when it comes to small flats. Each year they get higher and higher and the services in the local area are stretched beyond capacity.

“It is impossible to get a GP appointment currently - will the council increase the capacity of the GP Surgery in St John’s Road?”

On November 1 Watford Borough Council’s development management committee approved plans on November 1 to knock down offices in Clarendon Road that had been empty since 1997, despite residents airing similar concerns about a 23-storey block to be built in its place.

Speaking about the 23-storey building. Cllr Iain Sharpe, cabinet member for regeneration and development, said: “Clarendon Road is consolidating its reputation as an attractive location both for businesses and for residents, linking Watford Junction, which provides an easy commute in and out of town, with the High Street and the growing leisure and retail offer there.”

The plans are likely to go before the council in December or January.