Plans that will secure the long-term future of two of Watford’s landmark historic buildings have been approved.

The proposals for Watford Colosseum and the Town Hall, both outstanding Grade II listed buildings, are part of Watford Borough Council’s 10-year Town Hall Quarter programme.

Through the programme, Watford and the local community will benefit from significant investment over the next decade, the council said.

This will create jobs, enhance the town’s heritage, boost creative opportunities for entertainment and live performances and contribute to achieving a greener, more sustainable town.

Additionally, the scheme will deliver a saving to the council’s accommodation costs of around £300k each year.

The investment in Watford Colosseum will support a comprehensive refurbishment of the venue complemented by a range of enhancements and improvements that will open up the building for greater use by local performers and creative and arts groups. 

Watford Observer: Watford Colosseum (c) Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios Watford Colosseum (c) Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios

At the same time, the council will secure an experienced operator to manage the venue who will bring the very best of entertainment to the town, including comedians, live bands, music and entertainment the Colosseum is known for nationally when it reopens in 2023. 

The investment in the Town Hall will see the building transformed into a hub for both the community and business as it throws open its doors to a range of new activities. 

At the heart of the plans for the Town Hall is protecting the art deco history of the building, making it a fit for a new location for Watford’s Museum. 

Watford Observer: Watford town square (c) Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios Watford town square (c) Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios

The proposals for the new Museum embrace the building’s historic areas, using them as backdrops for galleries to celebrate ‘all things Watford’.

Other plans for the Town Hall will see the creation of dedicated space for Watford’s entrepreneurs and business start-ups, helping to increase local job opportunities and additional spaces to support local cultural organisations and charities in the town.

Mayor of Watford Peter Taylor, said: “Now, more than ever, it is vital that we remain ambitious for our town and keep investing in Watford. These plans not only protect two wonderful Grade II listed buildings but they will also deliver a real boost to our local economy, making Watford a fantastic centre for new and growing businesses as well as culture, arts and entertainment.

“Transforming the Town Hall into a lively community and business hub as well as a new home for the Museum not only makes better use of the building, it makes sound financial sense for the council, cutting the cost of our office space and delivering a good deal for council taxpayers.

“This opportunity also supports the town’s ambitions to achieve carbon zero by 2030, with a major programme of work to make both the Town Hall and the Colosseum greener and more energy efficient currently underway.”