Policy information sourced from the Watford Local Plan 2021-2038.
VT5.3: District and Local Centres
New development must contribute positively to the function, vitality and viability of the District and Local Centres. This will include sufficient provision of local shops and services to meet the day-to-day needs of local communities.
Proposals for commercial, business and service uses, or appropriate community uses, will be supported. Development proposals should:
- Maximise the proportion of the ground floor fronting a street as a positive and/or active frontage;
- Demonstrably relate to the character, scale and role of the existing centre;
- Ensure centres are accessible, active, attractive and safe during the day and night;
- Provide convenient and attractive access by walking and cycling; and
- Support temporary and community uses where they help to activate and revitalise units.
Applications for new hot food takeaway will be supported where they:
- Retain a separation of at least four units between each hot food takeaway unit; and
- Protect the amenity of surrounding properties.
The District Centre and Local Centres are defined on the Policies Map.
For more information, please see the Watford Local Plan 2021-2038.