Council shortlisted for prestigious Local Authority of the Year Award

The MJ Awards celebrate excellence in local government and highlight innovation, leadership, and best practice across the sector. Winners will be announced at the awards ceremony in London this June.

The judges were impressed by the council’s close working relationship with the county. 

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.

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.

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.”