A former police station and NHS clinic will be demolished to make way for new homes and shops.

St Albans and District City Council have appointed Morgan Sindall Construction to lead major works in the city centre that will see two six-storey buildings with a 100-space car park go up near Civic Close.

The former St Albans Police Station and healthcare centre, also bordered by Victoria Street and Bricket Road, will make way for a “mixed-use development” that will include 100 apartments, commercial and retail units on the ground and first floors and a large basement car park.

The construction firm said around 40 per cent of the development will be affordable housing.

Part of the site will also be a former office block, Hertfordshire House, and St Albans Magistrates’ Court.

David Rowsell, Morgan Sindall Construction’s area director, said his firm was “delighted” to have been chosen for the “transformational” scheme.

While Councillor Julian Daly, portfolio holder for commercial and development for the council, added: “This is one of the most ambitious developments that the council has ever undertaken and it is very exciting that we are now moving on to construction.

“Throughout the project we have encouraged community groups and interested parties to help shape the designs by participating in workshops and other events.

“I am confident that we will now build a thriving new residential and commercial area to the benefit of the whole St Albans District.”