Motorcycle police have been spotted patrolling near The Grove as the NATO summits draws ever closer.

World leaders will be attending the five-star hotel on Wednesday for the 70th anniversary of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization.

They include US President Donald Trump and UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

At the end of last week, metal fencing was erected along Langleybury Lane, protected by large concrete blocks.

Watford Observer:

Barriers have also been put in place in Langleybury Lane and Grove Mill Lane.

On Saturday, thousands of people spotted helicopters over Watford and Three Rivers district, seemingly bound for The Grove.

On a journey past The Grove this morning (Monday), we saw that the fence had been extended further along Langleybury Lane and several stewards are now stationed along the perimeter of The Grove protecting the site.

A convoy of five police motorcyclists were riding down Langleybury Lane shortly after 9am.

Watford Observer:

Stewards at The Grove. Credit: PA

Watford Observer:

A large temporary structure in the grounds of The Grove hotel near Chandler's Cross. Credit: PA

Watford Observer:

Police patrolling an entrance to The Grove. Credit: PA

Watford Observer:

Police officers have joined stewards in Grove Mill Lane, which is now shut until 8pm on Wednesday.

Hertfordshire Constabulary has confirmed increased patrols are now taking place across the area.

Footpaths, canal towpaths, and roads are being patrolled.

Police are meeting with businesses and the public to answer any queries and provide reassurance.

  • The following road closures are in place this week: Grove Mill Lane - opens again 8pm on Wednesday
  • Fir Tree Hill and Langleybury Lane, closed December 3 6am to December 4 8pm
  • Hempstead Road between Hunton Bridge roundabout and Courtlands Drive, closed December 3 11pm to December 4 11.59pm.
  • Watford Observer:

'Expect delays' Road closure warning signs in Watford. Credit: PA

Diversion are via A41 to The Dome roundabout, A412 St Albans Road to Town Hall roundabout and A411 Hempstead Road.

All rights of way across the hotel will be closed from 4pm on December 3 to 8pm on December 4.

The Grand Union and canal path will be closed to boats and pedestrians from Lock 74 to 76 from 2pm on December 2 to 9am on December 5.

For more information, visit https://www.herts.police.uk/Information-and-services/Advice/NATO/NATO