Watford Borough Council has been named the winner in the highly competitive Council of the Year category at the iESE Awards, a prestigious national event celebrating excellence in local government...
This achievement follows a year of significant accolades for the town, including being ranked as the UK’s number one town in the Vitality Index 2024 and receiving praise from the Local Government Association (LGA) for its ambitious plans and strong focus on delivering results.
Despite financial pressures faced by councils across the country, Watford has continued to lead the way in regeneration, sustainability, and community wellbeing.
Major projects like the transformation of the historic Town Hall into a modern civic and cultural hub and the Riverwell development, which is revitalising a 70-acre derelict site, are setting a benchmark in regeneration. The town’s ability to attract investment, seen in the revitalisation of Atria, plans for Watford Junction, and the redevelopment of Watford Business Park, ensures it remains a thriving business destination.
Watford is also leading on sustainability, with initiatives such as the Green Loop and the decade-long restoration of the River Colne creating new green spaces and enhancing biodiversity. The town’s award-winning parks, including Cassiobury Park and Oxhey Activity Park, continue to provide outstanding recreational opportunities, while schemes like the Healthy Homes programme are improving housing and health outcomes for the most vulnerable in the community.
Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor, said: “I am thrilled that we have won the Council of the Year award! This recognition is not just about the council—it’s about Watford as a whole. It reflects the strength of our community, the partnerships we’ve built, and the shared ambition to make Watford a place where people and businesses can thrive.
“Whether it’s through major projects, sustainability, or supporting those who need it most, we are constantly looking for ways to innovate and improve. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved together, and this recognition reinforces our commitment to continuing that work. A huge thank you to all our Council officers and members for their hard work and dedication. Day-in and day-out they go above and beyond to serve our community.”
Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor at the launch opening of Oxhey Activity Park
Chief Executive of Watford Borough Council, Donna Nolan, said: “This recognition is a testament to the dedication of everyone who makes Watford such a fantastic town—our residents, volunteers, local businesses, and community groups, as well as the hardworking council staff. Watford’s success is built on collaboration and a shared commitment to making our town the best it can be. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved together.”
For the full details of the iESE awards, visit the website at https://iese.org.uk/public-sector-transformation-awards-2025.
