A new CGI image has revealed what the former Clements building in Watford town centre could soon look like.

After plans to redevelop the existing building at 23-33 The Parade were announced, the development team has released an image of the potential transformation.

The Clements department store closed in January 2004 after being one of the top shopping destinations in Watford since opening in 1898.

Watford Observer: Clements Building, The ParadeClements Building, The Parade (Image: Google Earth)

The building currently houses B&M, Global Buffet, and NRG Gym, but under the plans it would include housing, commercial uses, and a new public space at the site.

As part of the proposals, the development would also provide a space for a market and access improvements.

In the artist’s impression of the planned building, the lower floor is open for shoppers to walk through and visit the market offerings. It boasts a “high-quality architectural design”.

Property agent Savills, architects Carson Sall and Makower Architects, and communications agency Lexington form the development team.

Savills’ planning director Simon Wallis said: “This is an incredibly exciting opportunity for Watford.

"Not only will this allocated site be developed, it will bring forward a sustainable development providing new homes, new commercial spaces and open up this site by improving the local amenities for the community."

Watford Observer:

A consultation is being launched ahead of a future planning application.

According to the development’s website, the aim is for community feedback on the current market and potential future provision to be used in the next steps.

The proposals are currently being “refined” and further details will be provided when the consultation goes live early next month.

It will be online from February 6 to 20 and people can drop in at Beechen Grover Baptist Church, in Clarendon Road, from 4.30pm to 8.30pm on February 6.

Watford Observer: Jamie and Anna Rankin welcoming shoppers to Clements for the final timeJamie and Anna Rankin welcoming shoppers to Clements for the final time (Image: Jane Parr)Feedback can also be given by email to alex.cowley@lexcomm.co.uk, or by calling 07531 416568.

Mr Wallis added: “We are enthusiastic about working with Watford Borough Council to bring forward this new development.

“We encourage the community to attend the exhibition or provide feedback and are keen to work with the public to make sure this application helps benefit the people of Watford.”