Charter Place redevelopment approved

Planning permission for the redevelopment of Charter Place Shopping Centre in Watford was approved at Watford Borough Council’s Development Control Committee yesterday evening (Thursday January 9). Elected Mayor of Watford, Dorothy Thornhill said: “This is wonderful news and means that it is full steam ahead for these exciting plans which offer the best deal for residents and the council. “The redevelopment will boost the local job market and create the best place in the region for people to shop for high quality brands and spend their leisure time.” The £80 million development will provide new retail space, a cinema (including IMAX screen) and leisure complex, along with a vibrant new restaurant hub. The proposed development will create around 1,125 additional new jobs across the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors, and up to 500 temporary construction jobs supported during the construction phase. Construction is expected to start during 2015, with the new destination scheduled to open in 2017. What do you make of the redevelopment? Email tim@mynewsmag.co.uk