Policy information sourced from the Watford Local Plan 2021-2038.

QD6.5: Building Height

Proposals for buildings that exceed the base building height set out in Table 6.1 will be classified as a taller building.

Proposals for taller buildings should clearly demonstrate:

  • Outstanding design quality, including height, massing, proportion, materials, detailing, site layout and its relationship with the surrounding area, which set it apart in terms of quality and distinctiveness, and which positively contribute towards the context and character of the area;
  • Significant public benefits that the development will provide, as set out in paragraph 6.30, clearly setting out why these would not be achievable as part of a development restricted to the base building height;
  • Significant sustainability benefits including the building design, construction, operation and connections to the surrounding area;
  • A clear townscape rationale for the specific siting of taller buildings, marking key locations or nodes, and responding to public transport accessibility and activity
  • A positive relationship with relevant heritage assets and their setting and the historic character that contributes to the town’s distinctiveness;
  • A desire to achieve a specific skyline shape or cluster having regard to Skyline: Watford’s Approach to Tall Buildings Supplementary Planning Document or any subsequent replacement document;
  • That proposals have been designed to avoid harmful impacts on daylight, sunlight, wind conditions, overheating and microclimate, including the provision of appropriate mitigation where required;
  • That appropriate amenity and play spaces are incorporated to a high standard for all residents;
  • That the setting of the development will not be dominated by car parking as a result of the higher density. In this context, a car-lite approach should be taken, where this would be an appropriate response to higher local public transport accessibility; and
  • A balanced and comprehensive approach to servicing to avoid impact on local streets and spaces.

Proposals for tall buildings are unlikely to be accepted in Outline form.

For more information, please see the Watford Local Plan 2021-2038.