Watford Borough Council is preparing to enhance St Mary’s Churchyard into a vibrant, family-friendly green space, with major works set to begin on 13 January 2025...
Preparations are already underway to ensure smooth progress for the project, with hedges trimmed to open up the site. Initial works starting next week will focus on ground preparation for wildflower areas near the church car park opposite St Mary’s. Herbicide will be applied to existing grass to prepare the soil, with work taking place before frost sets in to create ideal planting conditions.
The new wildflower areas will be completed ahead of the main improvements to St Mary’s Churchyard, and in the spring, a community seed-bombing event is planned. Local schools will be invited to help create a vibrant, biodiverse display that will enhance the area’s appeal.
Shaped by community feedback, the churchyard project aims to rejuvenate the space, promote biodiversity, offer opportunities for informal play, and provide a peaceful retreat for reflection.
Updated surfacing, paving, and entrance features will enhance the site’s appearance, while soft landscaping, including raised planters and wildlife-friendly installations such as birdhouses and bee hotels, will boost biodiversity. Improved pathways will enhance accessibility, and informal play spaces will make the area more engaging for families.
The council has worked closely with local architectural design students from West Herts College, integrating ideas from a competition led by Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor, earlier this year. These contributions have enriched the final vision for the space.
Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor, said: “Improving our open spaces is one of my key priorities. The transformation of St Mary’s Churchyard is another step forward in making Watford an even better place to live, work, and visit. Our goal is to make the churchyard a place where visitors can enjoy informal play, increased biodiversity and peaceful reflection.
“We’ve worked closely with the church and local students on this project and I’m excited to see these changes come to life. I look forward to seeing everyone enjoying the revitalised space next year.”
The works are on track for completion in May 2025, with early wildflower planting and community events set to bring life and colour to the area in the months ahead.
Masterplan
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