An application to build a new block of flats on Queens Road was rejected by councillors last night.

The plan to build 12 two bedroom flats on the corner of Lord Street and Queens Road was unanimously rejected by Watford Borough Council's planning committee.

The proposal, which included retail units on the street level, was considered “too bulky" and “excessive”. Council planning officers said the plans failed to “integrate with the surrounding context”.

Councillor George Derbyshire, meanwhile, told the meeting: “Queens Road is a particularly sensitive area, it does have a character of its own and that end terrace is an absolutely critical building.”

He said the proposal failed to reflect the rest of the street.