ATFORD

ABOUT

Summer 2023

What’s inside…
Cleaner, greener
Watford –
sustainability
projects are go!

What’s On
in Watford

Since we declared a climate and ecological
emergency in 2019, we have been
committed to creating a cleaner and
greener Watford. Our bold ambition to
become a net-zero carbon town by 2030,
two decades ahead of the national target,
means that we need to act quickly to
improve our environment. This edition of
About Watford sets out the wide range of
projects we are undertaking to achieve our
Peter Taylor target and make Watford a better place
to live.
Elected Mayor of
Watford
We are revitalising the River Colne (page
www.watford.gov.uk/ 5), a cherished part of our town, through
electedmayor our collaboration with Groundwork. This
will create thriving ecosystems and attract
new wildlife by making sure that we
sustainably manage plants and trees and
make enhancements along the riverbank.
I recently got involved myself by taking
part in the Balsam Bash, tackling invasive
species to support native species
to flourish.
In addition to this work, our tree planting
schemes (page 6) are transforming our
streets and neighbourhoods with 20,000
new trees across the town over the next
few years. And that’s not all, in this edition
you can read about the Nextdoor Nature
project (page 5), the expansion of electric
charging points (page 8), a new method of
insulating homes (page 7) and a lot more.
Published by Watford Borough Council. This magazine is printed on chlorine-free paper, made from sustainable
forests and costs 22p to print and distribute. Please recycle it when you have finished with it. This magazine is
available on our website. It can be downloaded as a PDF document and also as an audio file.
2 About Watford Summer 2023
ABOUT
This edition of About Watford also sets
out the great work that my team have
been doing for our area. We have invested
significantly to improve our parks and
green spaces, including Meriden Park
ATFORD
(page 10) and Woodside (page 11), and
our shared community space in the town Features
centre, particularly Queens Road (page 13).
Through our Community Grant Scheme,
Environment 4
we have also invested over £150,000 to
support local groups (pages 16 and 17).
There is still plenty more to come, and you Improvement Projects 10
can read about plans for the Colosseum
(page 14) and the exciting future for the Community 16
Watford Museum (page 15) here too.
Events 22
I wish you all a great summer and hope
you can enjoy some of the fantastic events
Business 24
taking place over the coming months.
With the cost of living crisis making things
difficult, I am really pleased that across News in Brief 25
Watford we have many free events for
people to enjoy. You can find a list of these Local Elections 30
on pages 22 and 23 or visit our new events
website www.watfordevents.com.
We’re here to help if
you have any questions
www.watford.gov.uk
Email: enquiries@watford.gov.uk
Telephone: 01923 226400
Watford Borough Council, Town Hall,
Watford, WD17 3EX Read all about it in your
Our Customer Services Centre is open Monday - Friday.
For specific opening times go to:
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Sign up to the council’s eNewsletter to receive information
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waste and recycling information, events and activities, cost of
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www.watford.gov.uk/newsletter
watfordcouncil
www.watford.gov.uk 3
 Environment
Cleaner, greener Watford
– sustainability projects are go!
Since the declaration of a climate and ecological
emergency in 2019, the council is continuing to build
on its work to create a cleaner, greener Watford.
The council has approved a new plan to become a
net zero carbon town by 2030, 20 years ahead of
the national legal target. ‘Watford’s Environmental
Strategy: Addressing the Climate and Ecological
Emergency’ sets out the ambitious plans to
make Watford a low-carbon, nature-positive and
environmentally sustainable borough.
It covers six themes: leading by example, people
power, achieving net zero, nature and ecological
restoration, responsible resource use and adapting
to change. The delivery plan includes 66 potential
actions and 55 targets, focusing on improved
biodiversity; more recycling; cleaner, greener travel;
reduced water usage and improved energy efficiency.
4 About Watford Summer 2023
Environment
Helping us to help nature:
Nextdoor Nature launches in Watford
Never has nature needed our help more than it
does today, and with the launch of Nextdoor
Nature in Watford we have a chance to make a
real difference.
Over 100 This initiative is not just about planting trees or
actions and targets creating new habitats for wildlife – it’s all about
bringing people together and empowering them to
for Watford to get involved with the natural world.
become a net zero
carbon town agreed Thanks to the National Lottery Heritage Fund,
Nextdoor Nature is providing communities with
by council the tools they need to help nature thrive in their
local area. Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust has a
wealth of expertise in wildlife conservation, making
them the perfect partner. More information at:
hertswildlifetrust.org.uk/wilder-communities
Over 20 projects are already in progress, with
key targets including:
net Achieving net zero carbon
Bringing nature and history
back to the heart of Watford
zero
emissions by the end of 2030
Reducing borough waste by
50% by 2030 The River Colne has been at the heart of Watford’s habitats, and have been planted with native plants to
history for centuries, shaping our culture and our increase biodiversity and attract wildlife.
lives. But unfortunately, in more recent times, it’s
30% of green spaces managed become somewhat neglected. That’s all about to The river is already stepping back into the limelight.
to support nature by 2030 change. We’ve teamed up with Groundwork to We’re running ‘Tales of the River’ in partnership with
revive the river and restore it as a focal point of The National Lottery Heritage Fund, focusing on the
our community once more. Colne’s heritage and its importance to the town’s
future, and Groundwork have been running ‘Wildplay’
In March, tree management using sessions along the river for kids under 8, to get the
traditional methods commenced, next generation on board with our natural heritage.
including pollarding along the
Knutsford Playing Fields, Radlett Want to get involved, connect with nature and help
Road and Waterfield riverbank. build a positive legacy for years to come? Find out
Too much tree cover can block more at: www.rivercolnewatford.co.uk/get-involved
light reaching the river, which is
detrimental to vegetation and
diverse habitats, so this work is
essential to maintaining the river’s
ecosystem, allowing aquatic plants to
thrive in the river and on its banks.
The wood didn’t go to waste either. Collected by
volunteers, it’s been used to create man-made banks,
called berms. These clever structures replicate the
natural bends and flows of the river, enhancing
www.watford.gov.uk 5
 Environment
Things are looking leafy:
our largest street tree-planting
scheme to date
The council and Hertfordshire County Council
teamed up to plant over 122 street trees in Watford
this winter, making it the largest planting scheme of
its kind in the town.
It’s part of the council’s goal to plant 20,000 trees
over the next four years, with over 14,000 already
donated via giveaways at Cassiobury Park over the
last two years.
‘Your Tree Our Future’
returns for a second year
We will once again be working in partnership
with Hertfordshire County Council to deliver
thousands of free trees to Watford residents as
part of the ‘Your Tree Our Future’ scheme. Last year
we received requests for over 4,000 trees from
Watford residents, with a further 42,000 given
away across the county.
6 About Watford Summer 2023
Environment
A ray of sunshine:
over 1,000 solar panels for Watford
thanks to group buying scheme
Watford reached a remarkable milestone this year with the installation
of over 300 solar panels as part of a group buying scheme, and the total
is set to rise to 1,000 by the end of the year!
Launched in 2022 with renewable energy company Solar Together, the
council supported the programme offering residents high-quality solar
panels at a discounted rate by buying in bulk.
It’s been a resounding success, with over 100 households taking
advantage of the chance to switch to solar. Installing the panels is
expected to save households a combined total of £50,000 per year
on their energy bills, as well as reducing their carbon footprint by an
estimated 4,867,200 kg of CO2 emissions over 20 years!
To take part this year, please visit solartogether.co.uk/watford/home.
Residents can suggest tree sites via the council’s
website at www.watford.gov.uk/treeplanting
before 31 August 2023, with further planting and
giveaways planned for this winter. If you receive a
Things are warming up:
tree or have a street tree nearby, please help us keep
them healthy by watering them. Thank you!
revolutionary insulation
robot comes to Watford
Tired of high energy bills and uncomfortable temperatures at home?
Well, there’s a new innovation in town and it’s set to be a total game-
changer! Say hello to TheQBot – a revolutionary robot designed to
spray foam insulation under floors, ensuring a faster, safer and more
efficient way of insulating homes and buildings.
This remarkable invention is currently being used in Watford and can
handle even the most challenging spaces with ease, making it ideal for
retrofitting older buildings, for improved energy efficiency and lower
utility bills.
The council are supporting the insulation with a range of grants and
loan options aimed at helping residents to keep warm, save money
and reduce carbon. For more information, visit: www.watford.gov.uk/
The scheme is now open for it’s second year with a
carbon-assistance.
further 9,000 trees available for Watford residents,
funded jointly by the county council and Watford
Borough Council.
Visit www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/yourtree to see
what trees are available and apply for yours. Trees
are limited to 5 per applicant and will be available on
a first-come-first-served basis.
www.watford.gov.uk 7
 Environment Environment

Charge it up! Join the club! Watford

Substantial grant for
Car Club to launch later
this autumn
EV charging points
Providing zero
emission vehicles for
‘by the hour’ car hire in

secured
convenient locations across
the town, to help reduce
private car ownership and
improve air quality.

We’ve got some exciting news for residents looking to make the
switch to electric vehicles. Thanks to a grant of £592,500 from
the On-Street Residential Charge Point Scheme (ORCS), the town
will soon see the installation of 79 new twin electric vehicle (EV)
charging points, bringing the total number to 102.

This will make it even easier for residents and visitors to access
convenient charging facilities and help promote sustainable transport
in the borough. Stay tuned for updates in the coming months!

Seeing is believing: virtual reality to bring

hassle and expense of owning a need is the app or a membership
car, especially if you only need card to unlock your chosen
one now and then. Whether you’re vehicle. It’s that easy! And the
proposed Green Loop Cycle Route to life We’re thrilled to announce that
running errands, going away for
the weekend or just need to get to
green cherry on top? All the cars
are electric or hybrid, so you can
the council has teamed up with a meeting, the Car Club’s got do your bit for the environment
We’re excited to announce the launch of an immersive virtual reality Enterprise Car Club to bring you a you covered. while enjoying a comfortable ride.
bike ride experience in Watford, with Hertfordshire County Council and revolutionary car hire service that
Digital Urban. will transform the way you travel. The best bit? You can hire a Here’s the scoop: Car Club will be
vehicle by the hour, making it an launching later this autumn, so
This cutting-edge technology allows residents to explore one of the The Car Club will be your economical option for individuals keep your eyes peeled for more
town’s newly proposed cycle routes and provide feedback. The sessions go-to solution for affordable, and organisations alike. Plus, with information on how to sign up and
will take place on 9 September at Big Sports and on 10 September at convenient car hire in Watford. six on-street locations across the start driving. We can’t wait to see
Oxhey Activity Park, from 10am to 4pm, and give visitors a chance to No more worrying about the town, they’re easy to find. All you you behind the wheel!
cycle through Watford and experience the route, complete with sounds,
people and 360° views of the town.

The virtual bike ride will focus on the eastern part of the Green Loop,
which covers 6.7 miles and includes key locations such as Watford
Junction, Cassiobury Park, East Watford and part of National Cycle
Back to school: Modeshift STARS
Route 6.
The virtual cyclists can also explore the town’s proposed new stretches
of cycleway; plans for widening and resurfacing existing cycleways
and footways; improvements to cycle crossings; and additional road
markings and cycleway signage.
Join the fun and help shape the future of cycling in Watford! Visitors
may also receive vouchers from Beryl Bikes and Tasty Bean Café.
Schools can play their part in ‘Transforming Travel in Watford’ by
registering for a Modeshift STARS Travel Plan at modeshiftstars.
org/education. This is a national awards scheme supported by the
Department of Transport that recognises schools that have shown
excellence in cycling, walking and other forms of sustainable travel.
It’s free to take part and supports the development of school travel
plans, with five levels of accreditation. Full support is offered, so if
your school is interested, please contact: activeandsafertravel@
hertfordshire.gov.uk

8 About Watford Summer 2023 www.watford.gov.uk 9

Improvement Projects Improvement Projects

Live, work and Let’s get moving!

Woodside Playing
enjoy Watford! Fields – a new era
Watford’s blooming! for sports and
Wildflowers and sustainability
plants breathe life
into Meriden Park Park users will be able to get active and enjoy our Watford Town Cricket Club, the junior and adult
great outdoors with Woodside Playing Fields set football clubs, and Watford Amateur Boxing Club.
to receive a major facelift, including sport and
Cllr Tim Williams, Cllr Jenny Pattinson, Peter Taylor and Cllr Amanda Grimston sustainability improvements. To cater for increased visits, plans for new public
toilets and a ‘Changing Places’ facility are also in
At the heart of the project is the creation of the pipeline. Detailed design and planning work
From improvements to our much-loved parks, such as Meriden Park and Woodside Community Sports Village, including will be carried out this year, with construction
Woodside Playing Fields, to investment in key town sites, including the Town renovating the existing buildings and providing largely scheduled for 2024 and completion early
Hall Quarter, Watford Business Park and Queens Road, here are just a few modern and energy-efficient facilities for cricket, 2025. So, grab your gear – a new era of sports and
of the latest projects working hard to make Watford an even more fantastic football and boxing, for all ages and abilities. sustainability at Woodside Playing Fields is coming
our way!
place to live, work, visit and invest. The plans also feature modern and accessible
changing rooms for the clubs on site, including
Cassiobury Park, Oxhey Park and Oxhey Activity Park have been voted for by the public within the
top ten parks in the whole of Britain at the Green Flag People’s Choice Awards! This year’s poll was
completed by over 18,000 people. Watford also received 17 Green Flag Awards in total for parks this
year – a record number in Hertfordshire (out of 2,208 across the UK).

Good news for residents, Meriden Park, one of our
most popular parks, has undergone some upgrades,
and there’s more to come!
One major change is the extended footpath around
the park, to improve access for everyone. The newly
installed landscaping mounds of excavated soil will
be seeded with grass, for added green space. In
addition, 19 new trees were planted in March, mostly
around the park’s upper section. There’s also an extra
table tennis table for outdoor fun and games.
But it doesn’t stop there. The park is now even
more secure, with a height restriction barrier at
the entrance of the community centre, and knee-
high railing on Meriden Way and Garsmouth Way,
discouraging illegal encampments and ensuring it
remains a safe, peaceful place for local residents.
Accessibility has been further improved with the
installation of dropped kerbs along Garsmouth Way,
making it easier for people with disabilities to enjoy
the area. Thanks to the council’s Neighbourhood
Grant, the car park at the Community Centre has also
been repaired (read more on page 17).
The next phase of works will focus on landscaping,
with wildflower and bulb planting, and some new
benches. All the improvements are not only to
beautify our park, but to support biodiversity,
improve the soil, and create a more pleasant place to
be. Join the Friends of Meriden Park volunteer group
by contacting: parkconsultation@watford.gov.uk To keep up to
date with the
project, please visit
yourwoodside.co.uk

10 About Watford Summer 2023 www.watford.gov.uk 11

Improvement Projects
A boost for business: exciting
new plans for Watford Business
Park now underway
Led by the appointed project managers, Stace LLP, and construction company,
Faircloth, the project is expected to be finished by late 2023.
‘Inspire’, the exciting £20million redevelopment
project at Watford Business Park is now underway,
with works taking place by the council over the next
year to create workspaces fit for the future.
Located on Greenhill Crescent, Caxton Way and
Faraday Close, the business park is home to over
100 businesses, employing more than 1,000 people
from Watford and beyond. Whilst the 30-hectare site
is a major employment area, a significant proportion
of the pre-existing buildings were not geared to the
needs of modern businesses.
12 About Watford Summer 2023
A future-proof facelift:
historic Queens Road receives
21st century makeover
The work is thanks to investment by the council and
Hertfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP),
who supported the redevelopment with £5 million
of funding via the Local Growth Fund. It includes the
design and construction of c6,080m2 of commercial
premises in 14 units, with parking, landscaping and a
new access route.
With modern, flexible business units for small and
medium-sized businesses, potential occupiers
include businesses in film, TV, life sciences and
manufacturing. It will also increase its employment
capacity, with the potential to create an additional
180 local jobs.
Improvement Projects
Built in the 1860s, Queens Road, a popular shopping
destination, has received a makeover, with new
granite paving, realigned street furniture, and a trio
of new planters.
With new seating and cycle stands, repainted
bollards and repositioned litter bins, the
enhancements have created a safer, more attractive
space for people to enjoy, and have brought the
area up to the same standards as the Town Centre
improvements completed in 2019.
A comprehensive scheme for the busy parade
of shops, restaurants, and other businesses, the
improvements have brought the aesthetics within
Queens Road up to the same standards as the major
public realm scheme completed nearby in the town
centre in 2019.
Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor, said:
“These improvements, supported by local
businesses, have made the area more appealing for
both residents and visitors, promoting local trade.
As part of my manifesto, I promised to enhance
areas like this so that businesses are supported
and residents can feel proud of their area. Similar
enhancements are being made in other areas
including Garston parade, to make Watford a more
desirable place to live, work and visit.”
The council’s streetscape improvement plan
will reach multiple locations across the town,
including King Street, Market Street, St Albans
Road, Clarendon Road, St Mary’s Churchyard
and the Town Centre, with smaller parades also
earmarked for improvement.
If you would like any more information, please email
the Transport & Infrastructure team at:
TID@Watford.gov.uk
www.watford.gov.uk 13
Improvement Projects Improvement Projects

Going live!
Watford Colosseum is set to reopen next spring after
extensive refurbishment, with global venue operator
and concert promoter, AEG Presents, appointed to
run the venue. The company is responsible for over
World-leading live
Landmark entertainment
350 arenas, stadiums, theatres and clubs across the
world, including indigo at The O2.

transformation: company new operator AEG have demonstrated their ability to attract an
outstanding mix of live music, comedy and dance acts

for Colosseum to Watford, enhancing the town’s entertainment and

cultural life, and giving a boost to the local economy.

ongoing improvements
to Town Hall and
Colosseum progressing
Plans that will secure the long-term future of two of the town’s
landmarks and transform them for greater community use are
progressing well. The project, known as the Town Hall Quarter
Programme, is set to regenerate the top end of the Town Centre,
breathing new life into the Town Hall area. Watford Museum granted £68,000 from The National
The plans include a revitalised Watford Colosseum and a new, modern Lottery Heritage Fund to support with transformation
and interactive Watford Museum, see more on the right. It will also
include the creation of an Innovation and Incubation Hub to support Watford’s plans to create an exciting new Museum As the plans take shape, Watford residents will have
our small and medium enterprises. and Heritage Service have received a major boost, the chance to share ideas on what they would like to
thanks to a generous award of £68k from The see in their museum.
National Lottery Heritage Fund.
With some spectacular heritage
The funding will support the council’s plans to rooms planned, the Town Hall will
relocate the museum to the Town Hall, creating make a striking location for the
a new home to tell the town’s story, and bringing reimagined museum, which will also
together local history from across the centuries. include a museum shop and café.

To find out more about the 10-year Town Hall Quarter Programme, planned completion 2030/31,
and see how it’s breathing new life into the area, visit: watfordtownhallquarter.com

14 About Watford Summer 2023 www.watford.gov.uk 15

 Community Community

Council grants
supporting local
community and
good causes
The council’s grant funding, which includes the
Neighbourhood Grant, Mayor’s Small Grant and
Community Fund, is providing a much-needed
boost to local organisations and charities, to
help them continue their valuable work across
our community. With the launch of our Watford
Community Lottery this year, even more
funding is up for grabs!

Sweet sixteen! Grants of up to £20,000 Applications for the next round of funding will open in autumn 2023.
Please email: NCIL@watford.gov.uk for more information.

awarded to 16 community projects 3G artificial grass pitch at School allotment at CCTV at Victoria Passage
Watford is set to benefit from 16 schemes that The goal is to support local projects that mitigate the Everett Rovers FC (£20,000) Beechfield School (£5,000) (£5,000)
received funding from the town’s Neighbourhood impact of new developments and ensure that the
Grant £150,000 funding pot. Generous grants have community benefits from sustainable growth.
Fully enclosed nets at Watford New Hope memorial garden Investment for better toilet
been awarded to local groups, including schools,
Town Cricket Club (£20,000) at St Marys Church (£3,111) and wash facilities at Watford
charities and sports clubs, to support projects that Local residents were given the opportunity to have
Workshop (£15,000)
will have a positive impact on our town. their say on the projects, with over 2,000 votes cast.
Have a look at the successful applicants on the next Defibrillator at Glen Rovers Interpretive signs within
The funding comes from the Community page and find out more at: GAA (£2,340) Cassiobury Park nature General improvements to
Infrastructure Levy (CIL), which is paid by developers watfordneighbourhoodgrant.commonplace.is reserve (£1,822) the Pump House Theatre,
on new housing developments in the borough. Creation of community including better disability
artwork by Cathartic C.I.C Improvements to Holywell access (£19,383)
(£8,773) Community Centre, including
the kitchen, main hall and Random Café to improve
Get active programme at entrance facilities (£20,000) accessibility, add a patio and
Veterans Support Group install solar panels (£7,923)
Watford & District (£2,000) Meriden Community Centre
car park, which includes Equipment for a seated
fixing potholes and painting exercise class run by B Dance
Biodiversity garden at Cherry for local elderly residents
Tree School (£4,500) white lines (£20,000)
(£80)

16 About Watford Summer 2023 www.watford.gov.uk 17

 Community Community

Council and NHS Trust Working together

Partnership brings exciting to keep Watford safe
new hospital to Watford Safer Watford – Watford’s community safety
partnership – brings together all the town’s key
organisations, including Watford Council, health
service providers, the Police, Herts Fire and Rescue
The government have announced that full
and a wide range of housing providers. Together,
funding for an innovative new hospital in
we are always working behind the scenes to keep
Watford has been secured. This remarkable
Watford safe and bustling.
achievement is the result of a longstanding
partnership between Watford Borough
Working together and sharing our insights means we
Council and the West Herts Teaching
can really understand and tackle any challenges facing
Hospitals NHS Trust.
the town. This is how we develop our Community
Safety Action Plan, focusing on three priorities.
In addition to strong lobbying by the previous and
current Mayor and the Council, difficult decisions
have been made to support the ambition for a new
hospital. This has included the building of
Thomas Sawyer Way, which serves as an Tackling
violent crime
access road to the new site and has
already led to decreased ambulance
journey times. Watford Council
enabled a new multi-story car park
to be built which means that land is
available for new hospital buildings. Tackling violence is a priority because of the
The council has also given outline disproportionate effect this type of crime
planning permission for the new has on the feelings of safety for the whole
hospital, meaning that the project can community. We have made a special focus on
move quickly. tackling violence against women and girls and
violent youth crime and last year, the council
The new hospital in Watford will revolutionise received accreditation from White Ribbon UK
healthcare services locally, offering cutting- for this commitment.
edge medical facilities. The hospital will have the
equipment it needs to provide state of the art
diagnostics and the site is designed in way that will Community wellbeing
deliver emergency care more efficiently and provide
Our work in this area comes directly from
more elective care through a new theatre complex. In
engagement with the community, information from
addition, the new building will benefit from more bed
residents and businesses and data from ECHO – the
space and an increase in single occupancy rooms.
Police’s public feedback tool. This work is all about
being proactive in order to prevent and resolve
Speaking about the funding, Elected Mayor of
community tensions. Head to bit.ly/police-watford
Watford Peter Taylor said: “I am really pleased we will
to share your thoughts.
finally be getting new facilities at Watford General.
I am proud of the work we have done to make this
happen and am really excited to see our local NHS Reassure and inform
get the facilities and equipment it needs to deliver Community safety matters to us all – it is a huge
healthcare fit for the 21st Century.” part of how we feel about where we live. That’s why
talking to you about what we are doing to keep our
town safe is essential and one of our top priorities.

Stay up to date with our work, as well as key things

happening around Watford: watford.gov.uk/newsletter

18 About Watford Summer 2023 www.watford.gov.uk 19

 Community
Proud to be
a dementia-
friendly town
During this important week, the town highlighted
the resources, organisations and support available
for those living with dementia, and their carers.
The council also held numerous ‘Dementia Friends
Information Sessions’ to better inform staff, residents
and local businesses. Interactive sessions helped to
provide a deeper understanding of how dementia
affects a person and what we can do to support
people in our community to live well with dementia.
Dementia affects more than 3,500 people living
in Watford, Three Rivers and Hertsmere and we
are committed to providing the safe spaces, vital
services and support they need. As a community,
we’ve made significant strides in becoming a
‘dementia-friendly’ community, with businesses such
as Morrisons holding ‘dementia friends’ training
to better understand the needs of customers with
dementia. There are also clubs, cafes and social
events running throughout the year for those living
with dementia, and their carers, including the West
Herts College ‘Forget me not restaurant’, run in
partnership with the council, where students provide
great food and fantastic service.
For more information on the support available,
please visit: www.dementiafriendlywatford.com
No one left behind:
helping Watford’s rough sleepers
The pathway away from rough sleeping isn’t a
straight road. It’s hard, complex and often means
having to go backwards in order to move forward.
In Watford, our work with rough sleepers is making
people sit up and take notice. Here’s why.
Over the past three years, the council has been
working with local partners to put in place what’s
called a Single Homelessness Pathway in the town.
This brings together all the separate homeless
accommodation and support providers into one team.
20 About Watford Summer 2023
Watford is proud to be a dementia-friendly
community and to support Dementia Action
Week once again – a nationwide event
dedicated to raising awareness of dementia
and understanding its symptoms. This year’s
event was held from 15 to 21 May.
By working together we are building a full picture
of every rough sleeper’s needs. The more we
understand about people, the more we can help
them. The Pathway also means we are merging the
help available, so people get the right help at the
right time.
It sounds simple enough but the partnership work
taking place in Watford is far from the norm and it’s
having a tremendous impact on some of the most
vulnerable in our town.
Community
Tim’s story *
Thank you to our Single
how the Pathway got
Homeslessness Pathway
partners who are
Tim off the streets
changing lives
At 52-years old, Tim found himself living on
the streets and addicted to heroin and crack
cocaine. Begging in the town centre helped to Help people find a life
pay for the drugs which were ruining his life. He
also has severe mental health issues. off the street, don’t help
He’d been sleeping rough for seven years, keep them on it
except for seven short spells in council
temporary accommodation and numerous
stays in charity accommodation. But it wasn’t
working – he was evicted every time because
of his drug abuse and the anti-social behaviour
that went with it.
In 2021, Tim was placed in the care of the
new Single Homelessness Pathway. The team
recognised that his needs are complex and
accepted that it isn’t going to be easy to get Tim
off the streets for good. We understand that
relapses are likely and that the rough sleepers we
help will often have to go back to the beginning
of the Pathway many times before being able to Please give to charity not to people begging
make real progress. • No one in our town has to sleep rough or to beg
Donate today
• Watford Borough Council and its partners are
providing accommodation, food and support
services to everyone who needs it
We saw this with Tim. So, we put him forward • We are helping people out of homelessness and in
to stable homes
for a Housing First home. These are for people • Nearly everyone you see begging has a place to
stay with food and support. Even those few without
who have tried many times and failed to thrive a place to stay are still being helped every day
in supported accommodation. The homes come
with high levels of support to help residents
maintain and sustain their tenancies, until they Donate at: bit.ly/watford-street-aid
can manage this themselves.
He signed a tenancy agreement for his new
home a year ago. It has been going well and
it’s Tim’s longest time off the streets so far. He
continues to engage with his Housing First
support worker and has access to the medical
help he needs. Tim hasn’t given up trying to
change his life for the better, and through the
Pathway we won’t give up on him either.
*This is a real story but to protect the person involved we
have changed their name.
www.watford.gov.uk 21
 Events Events

What’s On
in Watford Free Gym and Swim
An exciting array of council-funded, 24 July to 31 August
vibrant, diverse, cultural experiences and Watford Leisure Centres – Central and Woodside
events is coming your way. There’s something
Watford residents aged 19 and under can swim and
for everyone and most of them are FREE! have access to the gyms at Everyone Active sites
within Watford, for free during the summer holidays.
All sessions are bookable on the Everyone Active app.
3rd Community Cup Golf Event
10 July at West Herts Golf Club Big Screen
The council in partnership with Everyone Active and the Former Players Cub will be hosting 24 to 30 July (various times) – Town Centre
their 3rd Community Golf Day to raise much-needed funds for local charities. Hosted by 31 July to 6 August 2023 (various times) –
Luther Blissett OBE DL and Peter Taylor, Elected Mayor of Watford. For more information, Woodside Playing Fields
please visit: w3rt.org/community_cup_golf_day_2023 Grab your blankets, pack a picnic and sit back and
relax whilst watching some old favourites alongside
new blockbusters.
Herts Pride
19 August from 12noon to 10pm
Cassiobury Park
Everyone is welcome to attend this all-inclusive
event supporting our local LGBTQ+ community,
which includes stalls, a funfair, diverse line-up of live
entertainment and Herts Pride Dog Show.
Colourscape
19 to 28 August from 12noon to 5pm
Cassiobury Park (near Bandstand)
Enter a new world of colour and light. Explore a
unique labyrinth of 70 interlinked chambers of
intense colours and discover interactive musicians
and dancers along the way.

Big Bandstand The Ugly Duckling Big Sports

Situated near the Tea Pavilion, most weekends from June to September 2023 (3pm to 5pm), it
26 July at 4pm 9 September from 11am to 5pm
plays host to a jam-packed programme of FREE live shows. Everything from jazz to ukulele –
Cassiobury Park Bandstand Town Centre
and of course, lots of traditional brass bands to enjoy.
Wonderful, open-air family musical from the lovely Try out a whole host of free sporting and fitness
Folksy Theatre, filled with live music, puppetry and activities, alongside health and wellbeing advice.
colourful characters.
Market Lates Watford Fringe
Big Jiveswing
MARKET 22 September to 8 October

LATES
30 June, 4 August, 1 September, 27 October from 6pm to 10pm
Watford Market
The event will include drinks (bar available) and street food from around the globe, bringing
the market to life, by night.
What’s On Summer
Programme
July to August
Various locations
Great activities for children
aged 5 to 15, including stage
school, adventure play,
sports club, plus arts and
crafts. There’s something for
everyone this summer, so
don’t miss out, make a date in
your diary!
30 July from 12 to 6pm Various locations
Cassiobury Park Bandstand
An extraordinary weekend of great classical theatre,
One of the UK’s largest FREE Jazz Festivals, interactive comedic acts and fun-filled family shows.
featuring some of the best internationally acclaimed
musicians, bands and dancers. A great family day
out, with live cabarets, dance classes for children
Cassiobury Fireworks
Hercules and adults and a vintage photo booth, all for FREE! 4 November from 6pm to 8.30pm
15 July at 4pm
There will be a variety of vendors on site and
vintage stalls on the day too.
Cassiobury Park
Cassiobury Park Vibe 107.6FM will be keeping the crowds entertained
on stage from 6pm with music, competitions and
Bandstand
An outdoor
Big Beach live performances. The spectacular fireworks
display starts at 7.30pm. There will also be a variety
performance of 12 to 27 August from 10am to 5pm
of food and drink outlets, kiddies’ funfair rides,
Hercules by IK Town Centre
bungee trampolines and a bouncy slide.
Productions with their
The perfect chance for people of all ages to lap
unmistakable brand
up some summer sun. There will also be exciting
of ‘delightfully daft’
games for you to play, from the shack on the beach. Looking for more fun things to do in Watford
family theatre. without breaking the bank, then visit:
watfordevents.com. For sport activities,
visit: watfordgetactive.co.uk

22 About Watford Summer 2023 www.watford.gov.uk 23

 Business News in Brief

Supporting Watford
businesses to thrive
Watford has always had a thriving and vibrant local
economy. We’re making sure this continues and that
our business community is supported to overcome the
current challenges.
Join the movement:
Greener Future for Watford’s Businesses!
Looking to make a difference in your community?
Look no further than the partnership between
Watford Borough Council and local social enterprise
Wenta, who have teamed up for a two-year
programme aimed at helping SMEs reduce carbon
emissions in the Watford area.
Through this innovative initiative, experienced net
zero business advisors will provide free support
to local businesses, including access to the latest
learning content, resources and tailored support
for their net zero journeys. Wenta understands that
different businesses may be at different stages of
their decarbonisation journey, which is why they
offer bespoke guidance tailored to the size of the
venture, industry sector and progress made so far.
To make sure that as many local businesses as
possible can benefit from this programme, Wenta is
now offering free, dedicated guidance, resources and
skills training support to at least 250 local Watford
Step up your business game with Fit To Bid®: Watford’s exciting new programme for SMEs!
businesses. And the benefits to these businesses
are numerous, from access to green grants to
attracting and retaining staff teams, improving brand
reputation and gaining a competitive edge over
other businesses.
Wenta has over 40 years of experience in providing
free support to SMEs, and their programme for
Watford businesses is second to none. It includes
specialist learning content, virtual or face-to-face
sessions with progress check-in calls, regular
emailed content, templates, trackable progress, and
all the resources needed to start or continue their
decarbonisation journey.
Ready to make a difference in your community?
Visit: wenta.co.uk/watford_net_zero to learn more
or get in touch with Wenta at: 01438 310020 or
info@wenta.co.uk. Let’s work together to build a
more sustainable future for all.
News in Brief
3 is the magic number:
Watford in top 3 of UK’s Vitality Index
Great news for Watford! According to the recently released 2023
UK Vitality Index, our town has been ranked third out of the 100
largest urban areas in the UK, telling us what we already know:
that Watford is a top-notch place to live and do business.
The annual health assessment, conducted by Lambert Smith
Hampton (LSH), analyses the vitality of each town in terms
of economy and business, living standards, and health and
environment.
Watford excelled across all three areas, with notable
achievements in education, lifestyle, workforce jobs growth
and green space. The report highlights that Watford is the only
location to achieve a top ten placement in all three areas.
Seal of approval:
Town Centre’s
framework for the next
20 years gets thumbs up
Get ready, Watford residents… exciting changes are coming our
way! The council has approved a bold plan to rejuvenate the Town
Centre over the next 20 years.

The ‘Watford Town Centre Strategic Framework’ includes

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) based in Watford, listen ambitious plans following extensive consultation and
up! Watford Borough Council has partnered with Branduin Business stakeholder engagement, with top priorities identified as
Support to bring you the Fit To Bid® programme – an exciting initiative greenery/planting, improved public transport and more places
aimed at helping you actively engage in the local supply chain. to eat and socialise.

Through Meet The Buyer events, skills workshops, and 1-2-1 tender
advice sessions, expert advisors will provide practical knowledge
and skills to help you master the art and science of bid writing, and to
submit bids to council procurement, construction and infrastructure
projects, as well as large private sector buyers and suppliers.
The proposed programme is designed to support economic
growth and development. This includes future-proofing the Town
Centre with a mix of uses, boosting enterprise and innovation,
creating well-connected areas with active travel links and
harnessing the opportunities of a growing and aging population.

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to take your business to
the next level! Join the programme by clicking on the link and filling-
in the Bid Skills Assessment Questionnaire at: www.fittobid.co.uk/
watford. Let’s work together to make Watford’s business community
stronger than ever before!
The plans also prioritise investing in a green, safe and
welcoming public realm to encourage people to spend time in
the Town Centre and enjoy everything Watford has to offer.
The future’s looking bright!

24 About Watford Summer 2023 www.watford.gov.uk 25

 News in Brief
3 years on 2 wheels!
Beryl scheme celebrates third
anniversary
It’s time to celebrate! Beryl,
the UK’s leading micromobility
provider, and the council are marking
three years since the launch of their popular bike-
share scheme in Watford. Since its launch in 2020,
the scheme has gone from strength to strength,
with over 308,000 journeys covering more than
900,000km. An impressive feat!
On the right path:
Watford Junction
bridle path to benefit
from improvements
The council have improved the footpath between
St Albans Road and Watford Junction Station. The
project was funded by the council and Berkeley
Homes’ Section 106 contribution and included
resurfacing from the subway entrance to the
Network Rail footpath.
This welcome work has improved safety by
providing a smoother and more accessible surface,
26 About Watford Summer 2023
News in Brief
Getting us moving: local leisure centre
labelled as ‘outstanding’ in Quest report
Watford residents have access to first-rate leisure facilities at the Watford Leisure
Centre Woodside, managed by Everyone Active, in partnership with the council. The
centre has been awarded an ‘outstanding’ status by Sport England’s national quality
scheme, Quest, for the second time.
It’s testament to the high-quality services delivered by the staff and the top-class
facilities available and acknowledges Everyone Active’s commitment to engaging the
community and promoting fun, affordable activities for better health and wellbeing.
Taking a stand: new surveillance to
beat fly-tipping and antisocial behaviour
The council has taken a stand against fly-tipping and
antisocial behaviour with the installation of four new
CCTV cameras in hot spots, including Francis Road,
Queens Road and Queens Avenue. The cameras
operate 24/7 and will identify and report, for example,
when rubbish is dumped in the area. Additionally,
Victoria Passage will also benefit from CCTV, with
£5,000 from the council’s Neighbourhood Grant.
In its first year, the scheme saw 88,891 journeys,
which increased by 18% in the second and a further Since 2016, fly-tippers have been identified and
8.3% in the third. issued with Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) for £300,
totalling over £12,000. The council has had a zero-
The scheme has also saved 38 tonnes of carbon tolerance approach to fly-tipping for over a decade
emissions – that’s equivalent to approximately and successfully taken legal action against hundreds
2,242 litres of petrol or more than 222.4 flights from of offenders, saving more than £50,000 each year.
London to Edinburgh. Keep pedalling, Watford!
An historic reminder:
Garston Pillbox restoration project
complete
One of Watford’s historic landmarks, the
and made the walk much more pleasant with Garston World War Two ‘Pillbox’, has been
refurbished hoardings, removal of old posts, and restored to its former glory, thanks to the
tidying up of blue badge bays and street furniture. council and architect Kevin O’Callaghan. Built
as part of a network of strong point defences in
Phase two, subject to approvals, will include 1940, it had fallen into disrepair. A restoration
refurbishing the steps leading to the main bridle project was launched to repair and preserve
path, improving lighting, resurfacing the Network it, using traditional materials and techniques
Rail path and refreshing the crossing by the where possible. The team also made sure to
entrance/tunnel to the station car park. maintain the pillbox’s historical integrity for
future generations.
www.watford.gov.uk 27
 FR ref te
In h s h y H
The council’s team of three pest control officers have over

& ona

cl ot m IL
EE re d b
90 years of experience between them treating all manner

ud lu en S
d

es n c t s
OPALS
of pests. They work across Watford in homes and

a h
businesses, providing a trusted and value for money
Older Persons service. They have helped thousands of residents to
Activity Learning stay pest free, quickly, and discreetly.
and Safety Low-cost fixed fee treatments are offered by the

FREE EVENT
council, there are significantly reduced rates for
many residents. We aim to find permanent solutions
to your pest control problems and provide a trusted
source of advice. If you are thinking of using a
commercial company, make sure you compare the
services, and understand exactly what you are getting
before entering a contract.
offering safety information,
help and advice for the older person
“I’ve always found the Pest Control team at Watford Borough Council to
be extremely professional in its approach and very supportive of us as
a business. I can’t speak highly enough of the service.” Service user

We treat:
Rats Fleas
Mice (internal) Bedbugs
Wasps/hornets Squirrels
Cockroaches Pharaohs Ants

15 August 2023 • 10:30am-2:30pm

Hollywell Community Centre
Chaffinch Lane, Watford, WD18 9QD

Contact Terry Morris on 07740 670 642

or email terry.morris@hertfordshire.gov.uk

For more information, visit

www.watford.gov.uk/
Attendees include: Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue, Hertfordshire Police, environment/pest-control
Hertfordshire Trading Standards, Neighbourhood Watch, Small Acts of Kindness Hertfordshire,
28 About
or call 01923 226400
HertsWatford Summer 2023
Independent Living Service (HILS), and many more helpful organisations. www.watford.gov.uk 29
 Local Elections Local Elections

Local elections round-up How your council lines up

In Watford we have an Elected Mayor, Peter Taylor, who was re-elected for a
On Thursday 4 May, residents of Watford voted for councillors to represent them in 12 wards of second, four-year term on 5 May 2022. You can contact the Mayor if you wish to
Watford Borough Council. raise an issue with him directly.

Watford Borough is divided into 12 wards. Each ward has three councillors whom you Peter Taylor
The results were announced by the Returning Officer, Watford Borough Council’s Chief Executive Donna Nolan, at
elect to represent you for a four-year term. Councillors can be contacted on the phone Liberal Democrats
the count at Watford Central Leisure Centre on Friday 5 May 2023. numbers shown or by email and are there for you to discuss any issues or concerns you 01923 278371
have about your neighbourhood or the town. themayor@watford.gov.uk
Each ward is represented by three councillors. Residents in Watford
voted for the following councillors:
Callowland Central Holywell
CTED CTED CTED
RE-ELE RE-ELE RE-ELE
l Callowland – Dawn Alena Allen-Williams, Liberal Democrat
l Central – Rabindranath Filomeno Martins, Liberal Democrat
l Holywell – Ifeyinwa Favour Ezeifedi, Labour
l Leggatts – Asif Kaleem Khan, Labour and Co-Operative Party
l Meriden – Amanda Grimston, Liberal Democrat Dennis Watling Ian Stotesbury Dawn Allen- Marilyn Aga Dychton Rabi Martins Nigel Bell* Favour Matt
l Nascot – Mark John Hofman, Liberal Democrat (Lab) (LD) Williamson Devonish (LD) (LD) (LD) (Lab) Ezeifedi Turmaine (Lab)
07719 976512 07999 938202 (LD) 01923 337282 07936 404305 01923 228713 07783 812703 (Lab) 07411 153095
l Oxhey – Christopher Newstead, Liberal Democrat dennis. ian. 07891 914319 marilyn. aga.dychton@ rabi.martins@ nigel.bell@ 07535 284216 matt.
watling@ stotesbury@ dawn.allen- devonish@ watford.gov.uk watford.gov.uk watford.gov.uk favour. turmaine@
l Park – Penelope Margaret Hill, Liberal Democrat watford.gov.uk watford.gov.uk williamson@ watford.gov.uk ezeifedi@ watford.gov.uk
watford.gov.uk watford.gov.uk
l Stanborough – Timothy James Williams, Liberal Democrat
l Tudor – Charlott Edna May Saunders, Liberal Democrat Leggatts Meriden Nascot
l Vicarage – Jagtar Singh Dhindsa Singh, Labour RE-ELE
CT ED
RE-ELE
CTED
RE-ELE
CTED

l Woodside – Richard Victor Wenham, Liberal Democrat

The council has also

announced Councillor Shafiq Ahmed Richard Smith Asif Khan* Amanda Jennifer Peter Hannon Tom Osborn Mark Hofman Mark Watkin*
(LD) (Lab) (Lab) Grimston (LD) Pattinson (LD) (LD) (LD) (LD) (LD)
Simon Feldman as its new shafiq.ahmed@ 07976 350871 07931 529164 07702 815172 07515 468580 07359 121894 01923 278605 01923 239893 01923 255715
Chairman, with Councillor watford.gov.uk richard.smith@ asif.khan@ amanda. jennifer. peter.hannon@ tom.osborn@ mark.hofman@ mark.watkin@
watford.gov.uk watford.gov.uk grimston@ pattinson@ watford.gov.uk watford.gov.uk watford.gov.uk watford.gov.uk
Dawn Allen-Williamson as watford.gov.uk watford.gov.uk
Vice-Chairman (23 May).
Simon will be carrying out Oxhey Park Stanborough
fundraising events throughout the year NEWLY
ELECTE
D
NEWLY
ELECTE
D
RE-ELE
CTED

including bike rides, walks and the yearly

Santa collection. The Chairman would be
grateful for any local businesses or groups
that want to talk about mental health,
Kennedy Karen Clarke- Chris Peter Kloss Peter Jeffree Penelope Hill Lenny Simon Tim Williams*
get involved and help with fundraising to Rodrigues (LD) Taylor (LD) Newstead (LD) (LD) 07885 (LD) (LD) Nembhard (LD) Feldman (LD) (LD)
contact him at chairman@watford.gov.uk. 07598 284337 07963 345868 chris. 760658 07854 842669 penelope.hill@ 01923 671021 01923 278608 01923 663436
kennedy. karen.clarke- newstead@ peter.kloss@ peter.jeffree@ watford.gov.uk lenny. simon. tim.williams@
rodrigues@ taylor@ watford.gov.uk watford.gov.uk watford.gov.uk nembhard@ feldman@ watford.gov.uk
watford.gov.uk watford.gov.uk watford.gov.uk watford.gov.uk

Tudor Vicarage Woodside

D
ELECTE RE-ELE
CTED
RE-ELE
CTED
NEWLY

Stephen Charlott Darren Jagtar Singh Sara-Jane Nasreen Shah Richard Glen Saffery Ann Saffery
Johnson Saunders Walford (LD) Dhindsa (Lab) Trebar (Lab) (Lab) Wenham (LD) (LD) (LD)
(LD) (LD) 01923 336450 07803 610441 07903 205269 01923 253783 07891 138833 07939 218788 07803 714108
07929 024712 charlott. darren. jagtar. sara-jane. nasreen.shah@ richard. glen.saffery@ ann.saffery@
stephen. saunders@ walford@ dhindsa@ trebar@ watford.gov.uk wenham@ watford.gov.uk watford.gov.uk
johnson@ watford.gov.uk watford.gov.uk watford.gov.uk watford.gov.uk watford.gov.uk
watford.gov.uk
* Denotes Hertfordshire County Councillor
(plus Stephen Giles-Medhurst, County Councillor for Central Watford
(Lab) = Labour, (LD) = Liberal Democrats and Oxhey, and Stephen Cavinder for Meriden Tudor)

30 About Watford Summer 2023 www.watford.gov.uk 31

The hottest ticket in town!
Take part in Watford
Community Lottery
Hotly anticipated tickets for the new Watford Community Lottery are
now on sale, with the first weekly draw on Saturday 24 June 2023.

The local lottery has been set up by the council to raise money for
charities and good causes throughout Watford, including those
struggling during the cost-of-living crisis.

Tickets are available to buy online at

watfordcommunitylottery.co.uk for £1 each, and lucky winners could
scoop up to £25,000. 60% of money raised from ticket sales will go
towards local causes, 20% to the prize pool, and the remaining 20%
will cover admin and operating expenses.

Players have a 1 in 50 chance of winning a prize, ranging from the

£25,000 jackpot to £1,000, £250, £25 or 3 free tickets.

The draw will take place every Saturday at 8pm the week after the
launch, and the lucky winners will be informed by email, with
the money transferred automatically into their bank account.
Amongst the good causes set to benefit from the lottery
are Watford Women’s Centre, One YMCA, Watford
Gymnastics Club and many more. Other not-for-
profit organisations, such as sports clubs, community
groups and PTAs, are encouraged to sign up by visiting:
watfordcommunitylottery.co.uk.

If you’ve got tickets for the first draw, good

luck and a big thank you for taking part!

www.watford.gov.uk 32