The town hall is one of the most familiar landmarks in Watford but the site was once occupied by a different building.
The Watford Observer has again teamed up with its friends at the Museum of Watford to recall structures, objects or businesses from the town’s past that have changed, been developed, or are no longer visible but fondly remembered.
Today, we look back at this scene when a new roundabout in the town was under construction.
The museum’s volunteer archivist Christine Orchard said: “The house on the left, known as The Elms, once occupied the site of today’s town hall.
“The photograph, likely taken around 1936 or 1937, shows the site of the old crossroads, which still existed in 1935, undergoing transformation.
“Preparations for a new roundabout junction are in progress and the form of the roundabout is becoming clear.
- Look back at Watford Junction before redevelopment in 1980s
- Look back at town centre street before Watford ring road built
“This roundabout was grassed with low fencing and some readers may recall this as it existed until the current one was constructed.
“The Elms was demolished at the end of 1937, and the foundation stone for the town hall was laid in spring 1938.”
Visit the museum Facebook page or website www.watfordmuseum.org.uk to see more historic photos.
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