A bid to build another high-rise tower block in Watford looks set to be turned down.

Applicant Vedose Ltd has submitted plans for a building of up to 24 storeys on the site of the former TJX headquarters in Clarendon Road, which would be demolished.

The proposed development would include 247 homes for rent and 4,800sq m of office space across buildings of five, seven, 17, and 24 floors.

Read more: 24 storey tower submitted on old TJX site in Clarendon Road

Watford Observer: The TJX building that would be demolishedThe TJX building that would be demolished

But a council planning officer is recommending its planning committee refuse the application when it meets on September 6.

The officer has concluded the proposal would harm the character of the surrounding area because it “fails to demonstrate high quality design” and its size would be “significantly dominant” and not contribute “positively” to the town’s skyline.

Concerns have also been raised in the report about the quality of homes for residents, with fears some will have “poor access” to daylight and sunlight, as well as living in properties that are too small and fail to meet space standards.

Watford Observer: CGI of the proposal as seen from St Johns Road. Image: Vedose LtdCGI of the proposal as seen from St Johns Road. Image: Vedose Ltd (Image: Vedose Ltd)

Although office space will be provided, it will be less than the current building offers, which has concerned the officer, who recognises that Clarendon Road is a “prime” employment area for the town.

When Vedose published its plans earlier this year, it prompted a petition from Central Watford ward councillors, who accused the developer of being “greedy”, because it had already secured permission for 100 homes on this site, of which 33 would be affordable.

Watford Observer: left to right: Central Watford county councillor Stephen Giles-Medhurst and Central Watford ward councillors Aga Dychton and Rabi Martins outside the TJX building. Image: Watford Liberal Democratsleft to right: Central Watford county councillor Stephen Giles-Medhurst and Central Watford ward councillors Aga Dychton and Rabi Martins outside the TJX building. Image: Watford Liberal Democrats

Read more: 24 storey tower plans trigger petition and complaints

Read more: Cassiobury House hotel plans near Watford Junction scrapped

Along with the petition, the plans have drawn 26 official objections.

These relate to a number of issues including overlooking, the building being “too tall and an eyesore”, and a lack of social housing.

The applicant is proposing 13 affordable homes available at discounted market rent, failing to meet the council’s policy that 35% of homes are affordable.

Read more: What's being built next to Jurys Inn in Clarendon Road

Read more: The latest on plans to regenerate Watford Junction

The plans include 79 car parking spaces and planning consultant Peter Jeffery told the Watford Observer earlier this year Vedose was “excited” about the application.

He said: "Our proposal combines a high-quality aesthetic appearance with the delivery of real benefits to local people and businesses. We are excited to bring forward this investment of £120 million."

Have you got a story for us? You can contact us here.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to keep up with all the latest news.

To receive breaking news alerts or newsletters sign up here.