Tweaks to a building set to replace the former TJX are among two planning applications recommended for approval at an upcoming meeting.

Watford Borough Council’s development management committee meeting is set to decide whether a plan for three homes in Stratford Road and tweaks to a 247-home project can go ahead, on March 5.

Stratford Road

First on the agenda is a proposal to demolish a two-storey family home and build three detached homes with two facing out onto Langley Road and one onto Stratford Road.

Watford Observer: The house, in Stratford Road.The house, in Stratford Road. (Image: Google Street View)

It is the third attempt at obtaining permission to demolish and replace the property after previous designs failed, partly due to apparently not fitting in with the area.

The latest proposal will be looked at by committee because more than five (13) objections were submitted, but planning officers have recommended that approval be granted.

Watford Observer: The proposed development.The proposed development. (Image: UPP/Watford Borough Council)

Neighbours' objections included concerns about the impact on the appearance of the area as well as on surrounding homes and roads.

As with previous attempts, neighbours were worried about the busy roads and how cars would pull out of the access.

However, the latest plan has been assessed as being far enough from the junction to not present a hazard.

Clarendon Road

Another developer is seeking to make changes to a major application that was actually refused planning permission by Watford Borough Council in 2022.

The planning committee unanimously turned down a proposal for 247 rented homes along with 4,800sq m of office space in buildings of five, seven, 17 and 24 storeys, with 79 parking spaces at the former TJX site in Clarendon Road.

However, after the decision was made, it was the subject of a successful appeal, which meant permission was granted in September 2023.

Watford Observer: CGI of the tower including the 24 storey element. (Image: Vedose Limited)CGI of the tower including the 24 storey element. (Image: Vedose Limited)

On November 29, the applicant asked for permission to vary its designs in order to amend its fire safety details and introduce a second stair core.

Emerging safety regulations mean new buildings taller than 18 metres will need to have a second staircase.

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

Ahead of the meeting, planning officers said: “The variation of approved plans is acceptable representing a minor amendment to the consented proposal.

“All other conditions remain unchanged except for the time limit which is adjusted to align with the consented application.”

It is a committee item because it was classed as a variation to a “major application”.