Plans to redevelop part of an industrial estate into new "modern" commercial space have been approved by Watford Borough Council.

The permission will see five buildings knocked down on the Colonial Way estate and replaced by three new buildings which will continue to provide employment space.

At the council meeting on December 7, planning agent Wakaso Hirose told the planning committee the current buildings either side of Clive Way are "outdated and run down".

She said landowner, pension fund Coal Pension Properties Limited, feel there is a "pressing need" to renew the site, adding the proposals will make the site more sustainable.

The proposed development would provide "high quality, sustainable and flexible" industrial buildings, with floorspace of 7,781 square metres a little bigger than what is currently available.

Watford Observer: The junction of Colonial Way and Clive Way, where buildings are now set to be demolished. Credit: Google Street ViewThe junction of Colonial Way and Clive Way, where buildings are now set to be demolished. Credit: Google Street View

It took the committee a matter of minutes to unanimously approve the scheme. The only concern raised was the number of electric vehicle parking charges proposed.

Out of 109 car parking spaces, around 20 are set to cater for electric vehicles which Liberal Democrat councillor Jenny Pattinson indicated was too low.

The committee asked whether they could force a commitment to boost the electric vehicle charging provision but were informed current council planning policies would not allow for this.

However, they were told the council's new local plan, which has been sent off for examination by the Secretary of State, says when new developments come forward, at least 20 per cent of parking spaces should cater for electric vehicles.