Special "protective powers" to halt the demolition of an historic 19th century pub in Oxhey have been called for by Watford Borough Council.

In December 2012 the council received a planning application to demolish The Victoria Public House, in Chalk Hill, so a block of eight flats could be built.

The council regards the pub as a valuable local building and has made a special direction to ensure that it is not demolished without permission.

Oxhey ward councillor Iain Sharpe said: "The Victoria was built during the late 1850s, and since then it has been in continuous use as a pub.

"It is a well known and popular landmark, which is valued by the local community.

"The building itself retains many of its original features and adds to the character of the area. We are doing what we can to help protect our local heritage."

The planning application has not yet been discussed, and if it is refused, the applicant would still have the right to appeal to the Secretary of State.