Plans to redevelop derelict BT repeater station in Watford rejected

Originally built as an electricity substation, the small property behind Leggatts Way was taken on by BT as a repeater station to help amplify communication signals.

But as digital communications advanced, the need for these repeater stations became redundant and now this particular one has reportedly become a hotspot for vandalism and antisocial behaviour.

An example of a BT repeater station in Oxfordshire. Credit: Thompson Wilson Estate Agents via Oxford Mail/Newsquest

So much so that there have been three attempts to redevelop the building, but so far, none have gained the approval of Watford Borough Council.

The latest bid, submitted in May, aimed to rebuild the repeater station for use as a one-bedroom home for two people.

It was proposed to include a kitchen and living area, along with a double bedroom and bathroom over two floors.

This Google Street View image just about shows the brick repeater station (we have outlined in red) in the back garden of a property in Leggatts Way

But a council officer found issues with the application, which drew two objections, concluding the home would be “cramped” and fail to comply with space standards.

Proposed plans and elevations of the house that has been rejected. Credit: Watford Borough Council planning portal

In their decision to refuse the scheme, the officer also said the “isolated” property would also “fail to relate” to existing neighbouring buildings such as in Heather Lane and Baxter Road, and therefore be “inappropriate” development.

New homes in Heather Lane, leading to the large Baxter Road redevelopment. The repeater station site is just behind this street view image. Credit: Google

The applicant’s planning agent had argued the property would be finished to a “high standard” and cause no harm to the character of the area.