Council launches consultation on two key planning documents

Have your say

These documents build on policies in the adopted Local Plan and aim to provide clear guidance on affordable housing contributions and co-living standards.

The public consultation is open until 5pm on 20 March 2025, and the council welcomes feedback from all interested parties.

Affordable Housing: Developer Contributions SPD

Ensuring the delivery of affordable housing is a top priority for the council. Developers are required to allocate a proportion of new housing as affordable, preferably on-site to promote mixed communities. However, where this is not possible, financial contributions are sought instead. This new SPD seeks to:

• Clarify how financial contributions towards off-site affordable housing will be calculated.
• Introduce a method for late-stage viability reviews to ensure developments deliver the maximum public benefit.
• Address viability challenges that have previously led to lower levels of affordable housing than desired.

Co-living: Standards and Requirements SPD

Co-living developments have gained increasing interest in Watford, offering private rooms with shared amenities designed to foster a sense of community. While co-living can provide attractive housing options for young professionals, the council recognises the need for clear standards to ensure high-quality living environments. This draft SPD sets out:

• Minimum standards that all co-living schemes must meet.
• Design expectations to ensure developments enhance both new and existing communities.
• Quality of life considerations to create well-designed, sustainable homes for residents.

Have your say

Watford Borough Council encourages residents, developers, and local organisations to review the draft documents and provide feedback. To view the consultation documents and find out how to respond, visit our webpage. The deadline for comments: is 5pm on 20 March 2025