The landlord of Watford's biggest nightclub says it “remains committed” to replacing it with new homes, despite councillors rejecting its planning application.

But the chairman of the company that runs Pryzm claims councillors overlooked the chance to argue that the club is a cultural venue that would have to be relocated if the scheme went ahead.

The fate of the venue hung in the balance on Tuesday (July 26) as councillors debated whether the building it is part of should be replaced with 147 new homes and two retail units.

While the application was refused, Pryzm’s future was still unclear as Watford Parade (Gibraltar) stated in June that its tenants would be evicted in January, regardless of the outcome.

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When asked about the future following the meeting, the landlord remained tight-lipped whether Pryzm would still be made to vacate and made clear it would continue pushing plans for housing.

Watford Observer: How the venue could have looked if plans went forward. Credit: Dwyer Asset Management LtdHow the venue could have looked if plans went forward. Credit: Dwyer Asset Management Ltd

A spokesperson said: “We are obviously disappointed with the decision, especially considering that the issues raised could have been resolved with more time for dialogue.

“We remain committed to bringing forward the new homes, including affordable homes, as well as commercial space on this site.”

Cllr Rabi Martins, who chaired the meeting, said he was “disappointed” by the plans, saying this is a “prominent” site where “quality accommodation” is needed.

Peter Marks, chairman of REKOM UK, the company that runs Pryzm, also admitted “we do not see this as a victory yet”.

Watford Observer: REKOM UK is still wary despite the good news yesterday. Credit: Stephen DanzigREKOM UK is still wary despite the good news yesterday. Credit: Stephen Danzig

He said: “Whilst the planners have rejected the scheme, should the applicant decide to ‘right all the wrongs’ that the planners are standing their ground on, then the situation may be different.”

He added: “However it is our contention that the committee have missed an important matter under current planning guidelines and indeed the Watford local guidelines and that is that they should take into account that Pryzm can be considered a cultural venue that would need to be relocated for the scheme to go ahead.”

Watford Observer: A dancefloor at Pryzm in Watford. Credit: Holly CantA dancefloor at Pryzm in Watford. Credit: Holly Cant

Mr Marks noted that the committee suggested the club could be relocated, but said with 2,700 capacity there are no suitable buildings in the right location.

He concluded: “Should there be another application, this important technicality will be explored fully.”

Watford’s MP, Dean Russell, said he hopes that all involved can “come together” to “find a way to keep Pryzm open”.

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