The council is being coy over the future of Watford Museum’s current building.

As part of the town’s multimillion pound investment programme, the museum is expected to move to the town hall.

But what happens to old building – Benskin House – is yet to be decided.

Read more

Watford Borough Council has said it is exploring other options for the museum’s current home.  

There is a chance it could be sold, and the council has not ruled out that it could be turned into residential dwellings.

Mayor of Watford Peter Taylor said: “As we take forward the very exciting plans, we have for the museum to relocate to the wonderful town hall heritage rooms, we are exploring alternative uses for Benskin House, which will include selling the building.

“We know Benskin House is an important part of Watford’s history and, because of this, it is a nationally Grade II listed.

“This means any future use will have to take its historic status into account and ensure that it is protected for future generations.”

Watford Observer asked if the building could become a residential dwelling.

The council explained: “At this stage, we cannot rule anything in or out in terms of the future use of the building, however, Grade II listing gives a building legal protection from demolition and alterations which could destroy its historic fabric or affect its character and appearance.”

Watford Observer: The museum could move to the Watford Town Hall.The museum could move to the Watford Town Hall. (Image: Google Street View)

It comes after members of the public were asked for their views on the museum’s move.

A survey, that has now closed, was released asking people a number of questions, including if they would be more likely to visit the museum if it was in the town hall.

The move would be part of the council’s multimillion Town Hall Quarter programme, which aims to make "significant investment" in the town culturally.

The council's cabinet approved the plans to relocate Watford Museum to the town hall in December 2021.

Work on the town hall is currently expected to commence in 2023 and complete in 2024.

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

Follow us on FacebookTwitter and Instagram to keep up with all the latest news.

To receive breaking news alerts or newsletters sign up here.

Check out our Watford crime and court Facebook page here.