I would like to sow the seed of what could be achieved if we all stepped back and thought what the wider community really needs. In my opinion, the current proposals are at direct odds with each other.
The two points we all need to consider, for now but importantly for future generations, is we need a fit-for-purpose 21st century hospital that is easily accessible to all the communities it serves, Watford, Hemel Hempstead and St Albans, and a football stadium that is the heart and home of Watford FC. Build the hospital on Bushey Hall golf course and enhance Watford stadium and the surrounding area.
The main hospital entrance could be off the A4008 as this is linked to the M1 at Junction 5 and the ring road in Watford town centre, giving good access to patients from Hemel and St Albans as well as Watford and surrounding area. Specialist buildings / facilities to be built across the site, low-rise, with underground staff parking provided. Public transport links to include a bus service with access to the site, allowing patients to be dropped and collected directly outside each building. Embrace and enhance the open spaces, patient convalescence areas, restaurants, cafes, seating areas for staff, parents and children. Include key worker homes with access to local shops, schools and the local community. This site is more suitable for health and care services, tranquil, calm location away from the busy, congested town centre and residential areas.
Mr Filer's proposal for a new hospital site
Watford FC is the town’s biggest asset. The stadium is Vicarage Road, the club belongs in Vicarage Road. With the hospital site being vacated, the site could be redeveloped to enhance the football fans’ visit to Watford. This could include a hotel and restaurants around the stadium, with good adequate parking. Reinstate the railway line from Watford Junction to a new Watford FC Stadium station, this would allow away fans to utilise trains reducing match day traffic. Access to the site would be via Tom Sawyer Way, with routes directly connected to the M1. Away fans can be encouraged to visit High Street to help boost the local economy. (If the stadium is located outside town, away fans are unlikely to visit High Street.)
Mr Filer's plan for the redevelopment of Vicarage Road stadium
I hope that those making decisions are able to step back and not be constrained by existing plans and see the real benefits to the wider community by providing a hospital that serves all areas, while retaining the history of the town’s football club.
We have one opportunity to get this right, let’s not waste it.
Andrew Filer
Oxhey
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel