Will the Watford Pryzm site become housing after closure?

Fears have been voiced that the club, which last week confirmed it will close after New Year's Eve, could be subject to another housing application.

The site had appeared saved after a 147-home plan was blocked by Watford Borough Council in July last year and a new five-year lease was signed that December.

But Pryzm's closure and site’s potential sale could leave the door open once again.

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• The Watford Pryzm 'closure' saga, a timeline of what we know

Watford mayor Peter Taylor said: “The closure of Pryzm is a loss for our town, steeped in memories across generations.

“Despite Watford Council's rejection of a development application last year, the site faces an uncertain future, with plans from a new developer unclear at this stage.”

The brochure lists 125-127 The Parade Watford at a £6,000,000 guide price. The 'planning history and alternative uses' page then explains that no planning policy protects nightclub use and that it is included in the local plan for residential, commercial, and community uses.

It adds that the council’s concerns over “residential-led mixed use development” were “design led”.

Watford mayor Peter Taylor.

Watford's mayor said that the site was included in the Watford local plan as an opportunity for development due to “unreasonable housing targets set by central government”.

“However, it's important to acknowledge the previous rejection, which highlighted crucial aspects like the absence of affordable housing,” he added.

“Any future proposal, if the site becomes housing, must align with both national policies and local regulations, ensuring that the development not only meets housing needs but also supports our community.”

Mr Taylor also reinforced the council’s “unwavering” commitment to the night-time economy, while acknowledging that “regrettably, we can't rescue every venue”.

Watford MP Dean Russell (Image: Simon Jacobs)

Watford MP Dean Russell said it was “deeply frustrating to hear about the potential closure of Pryzm in Watford”, particularly after his efforts to stop it closing at the start of 2023, and shared his concerns that closure would hurt both staff and the wider economy including taxi drivers.

He added that it was a “huge missed opportunity” and confirmed that he will be speaking with Pryzm’s owners to understand the situation and offer support. The MP urged all parties to explore every avenue to save the venue.