A bid to overturn a refusal to knock down a historic monument in Watford has reached a critical stage.

The Sun Clock Tower in Ascot Road is still under threat after applicant Paul Stacey appealed Watford Borough Council's decision to demolish the building.

A Government planning inspector has now been assigned to the case and there is exactly one month left for "interested parties" to make comments on the appeal.

The council refused to back the proposal to demolish the clock tower because of its "historic significance for the local area" but the inspector could overrule the council's decision.

Watford Observer: The Sun Clock Tower is in Ascot Road in western Watford. Credit: Lynda Bullock/Watford Observer Camera ClubThe Sun Clock Tower is in Ascot Road in western Watford. Credit: Lynda Bullock/Watford Observer Camera Club

Residents have described the tower as a "landmark" for Watford and its printing heritage.

Lyn Smith previously told the Observer: "The Sun Clock Tower is one of two remaining reminders of Watford's history as a print town. The other building is the Odhams Clock Tower in North Watford.

"Both remind us that the print industry used to be the major employer in the town. There are still many people who either worked in the print or knew someone who did and feel strongly that the clock tower should not be demolished."

Watford Observer: Credit: Mark Crowley/Watford Observer Camera Club Credit: Mark Crowley/Watford Observer Camera Club (Image: Mark Crowley/Watford Observer Camera Club)

West Watford and Holywell Labour councillor Nigel Bell welcomed the council's decision earlier this year but went further and called for the building to be restored.

But with the tower's future still uncertain, Cllr Bell is encouraging residents to let the inspector know how "important" the Sun Clock Tower is to Watford adding he would welcome those "mindful" of Watford's history to put their objections in.

The Watford Observer is also backing calls to protect this building.

Residents can let the inspector know why the clock tower should be saved via the Planning Inspectorate website.

People can make comments via the 'interested party comments' section and comments must be submitted by July 15. An account will need to be created with the Inspectorate in order to make comments.

The case can be found at https://acp.planninginspectorate.gov.uk/

The appeal case reference is number is APP/Y1945/W/21/3271999 although only the last seven numbers of '3271999' are needed to search for the case.