Plans for housing on the former Watford Police Station site are expected to be submitted soon. 

The Watford Observer understands that residential developer McLaren Living is currently consulting the public following its purchase of the police headquarters and former magistrates’ court in Clarendon Road last year.

It previously unveiled proposals for a large “mixed-use neighbourhood” on the 1.75-acre site after Hertfordshire Constabulary moved to its new George Street location near the town centre.

Watford Observer: A CGI of how the scheme could look if approved. A CGI of how the scheme could look if approved. (Image: McLaren Living)The formal planning application is expected to be submitted by late spring, and could include around 300 build-to-rent homes and approximately 30,000ft² of commercial space.

Watford Observer: Police's former base in Shady Lane.Police's former base in Shady Lane.

Speaking on the purchase last year, McLaren Living managing director Matthew Biddle said it was “really excited to have acquired such a great site”.

He added that McLaren Living would work with council and community to provide “much-needed new homes for rent, along with high-quality commercial space”.

Watford Observer: The new police station in George Street.The new police station in George Street. (Image: Newsquest)

Watford police transferred to the George Street building on December 4, 2023, meaning officers are now "literally seconds away" from the town centre, according to Chief Constable Charlie Hall.

The previous Shady Lane station was the force’s base from 1940 to 2023, but was considered no longer "fit for purpose" and required "costly maintenance".