Policy information sourced from the Watford Local Plan 2021-2038.
EM4.3: Office Development
The Clarendon Road Primary Office Location is located on the Policies Map.
Proposals for new office development, defined within the office Use Class E(g)(i), that result in no net loss of office floorspace in the Clarendon Road Primary Office Location will be supported. Proposals that would incur a net loss of office floorspace will be resisted unless they safeguard the commercial role and character of the Clarendon Road Primary Office Location, and:
- An up to date evidence base demonstrates that the site is no longer required for office use; or
- The property has been vacant for at least 12 months and there is clear marketing evidence to show it cannot be reused or redeveloped for office use in the medium term.
Mixed-use development, including residential and other uses that are consistent with the type of development and the objectives for the area, will be supported where there is no net loss of office floorspace and a predominantly active commercial frontage is maintained onto Clarendon Road that reinforces the commercial character of the area.
Proposals for development of new office uses outside the Clarendon Road Primary Office Location must support the Office Development Hierarchy. Proposals are also to demonstrate there will be no significant adverse impact on the office function of Clarendon Road, and that good accessibility by walking, cycling and public transport is provided or available.
Proposals for supporting uses under 100sqm will be supported where their job-generating potential can clearly be demonstrated. This should be assessed on a case-by-case basis.
For more information, please see the Watford Local Plan 2021-2038.