A few weeks ago, we were told the landlords of a building in Watford were willing to lose all of their tenants even if their grander plans to redevelop the site weren’t backed.

And so, by the end of January 2023, we are now looking at a very real situation where this current clubbing, hospitality, and retail venue could just be lying empty.

That’s because Watford Borough Council officers have concluded they are not supportive of the current proposals to build 147 homes on the site of Pryzm and other existing businesses.

Watford Observer: How the Pryzm building could be redeveloped. Credit: Dwyer Asset ManagementHow the Pryzm building could be redeveloped. Credit: Dwyer Asset Management (Image: Dwyer Asset Management Ltd)

Read more: Housing plans for Pryzm site in Watford recommended for refusal

Of course, the council’s planning committee might come to a different conclusion on Tuesday, but more often than not, members are guided by the expertise of their officers when they make their decision.

This means if the plans are rejected and the likes of Pryzm, Laser Planet and Steinbeck & Shaw do have to leave, we will have a huge empty space in the town centre – something we probably have too many of already – and this does no one any favours. We are sure there are many who hope the landlords of the building will have a change of heart and decide to keep things as they are.

Read more: Pryzm nightclub in Watford to shut by January, landlord says

Of course, the applicant could appeal any rejection or resubmit plans more to the council’s liking, but as it stands, it seems like we could be in for a stand-off, which is unfortunate with so many livelihoods potentially on the line; whether that be jobs or visitors to these venues.