Atria Watford has refused to comment on its plans for the former John Lewis site as shoppers called for their ideal replacement.

A planning application was submitted last week seeking to change the proposed use from retail to "retail, leisure, the sale of food and beverage for consumption (mostly) on the premises, and/or services offices".

In layman's terms, it appears Atria wants to know what it can do with the site without needing planning permission. By changing the proposed use from just retail those options would widen.

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The Watford Observer has since asked Atria why the application was made, and whether there are specific businesses lined up to take over if permission is granted.

However, a spokesperson for the shopping centre said it is not something they can currently comment on.

After news of potential progress emerged shoppers speculated about what could move into the empty unit.

Home Bargains was a favourite, as well as Woolworths and IKEA. People also called for John Lewis to return to the site.

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