Policy information sourced from the Watford Local Plan 2021-2038.
HC12.3: Built Cultural and Community Facilities
Proposals for new, extended or improved cultural and community uses that address a demonstrated demand from the local community will be supported. Such uses should be located within sustainable, accessible locations close to the identified need and as a complementary use within, or close to, an identified Local Centre. Facilities that conflict with existing uses nearby will not be permitted.
The loss of existing community and cultural venues will only be permitted where it can be demonstrated that:
- The facility is no longer needed and there is no need for an alternative community or cultural use on that site;
- In accordance with Appendix F, 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 community uses; or
- The community or cultural uses can be re-provided of a higher quality in an alternative location or manner that is equally accessible to the community.
Development within the curtilage of existing community facilities should demonstrate that the continued operation of these facilities is not compromised.
For more information, please see the Watford Local Plan 2021-2038.