The council news

• Council swiftly responds to illegal encampment

  Watford Borough Council and the police are aware of an illegal encampment on the Radlett Road and are working together to take action.

  Published: Sunday, 8th April 2018

• Your poll card is on its way – keep it safe!

  Watford poll cards are being delivered to eligible voters this week, with everyone expected to have received theirs by Friday 30 March.

  Published: Tuesday, 27th March 2018

• Rainforest Dreams comes to Watford

  Elected Mayor of Watford welcomed Javier Haulinga

  Published: Thursday, 22nd March 2018

• Voting for Watford’s new Mayor - how it works

  When Watford voters go to the polls on 3 May to choose their next elected Mayor, they will notice that the ballot paper is different from the ones for borough ward and parliamentary elections.

  Published: Wednesday, 21st March 2018

• Watford Borough Council repair landmark sign in Woodside

  A historic timber road sign has been repaired

  Published: Wednesday, 14th March 2018

• Watford partners with neighbouring councils on a plan for growth

  Watford committed to working with its South West Hertfordshire neighbours on a strategic plan for growth at last night’s full council meeting (Tuesday 13 March).

  Published: Wednesday, 14th March 2018

• Watford marks Elected Mayor Dorothy Thornhill’s last full council meeting

  Watford’s elected Mayor Dorothy Thornhill attended her final full council meeting last night (13 March), as she prepares to step down in May after 16 years in office.

  Published: Wednesday, 14th March 2018

• Easter sees the return of free children’s activities provided by Watford Borough Council

  Free activities programme for children aged from five to 15 returns for Easter holiday

  Published: Wednesday, 14th March 2018

• Watford introduces new housing apprenticeships

  Watford Borough Council has marked National Apprenticeship Week (5 – 9 March) by announcing its new housing apprenticeship scheme, developed in partnership with Watford-based West Herts College.

  Published: Wednesday, 7th March 2018

• About Watford distributed throughout borough

  Our free About Watford magazine has been printed and is being distributed to households across the borough this week.

  Published: Wednesday, 28th February 2018

• Construction of first homes begins at Watford Riverwell

  Watford Riverwell recently celebrated the start of construction works at Woodlands, delivering the project’s first new homes.

  Published: Friday, 23rd February 2018

• Keep warm this winter with the Hertfordshire Warmer Homes scheme

  Local residents have been offered help with home improvements to stay warm this winter

  Published: Friday, 23rd February 2018

• Local schoolchildren design postcard to help council tackle flytipping

  Watford Borough Council and Veolia are seeking to build on their success of reducing flytipping in Cassio Road by 75% through a new project in West Watford.

  Published: Wednesday, 21st February 2018

• Watford Museum awarded Tourism Rosette

  Watford Borough Council’s Museum has been awarded the accreditation of VisitEngland’s Quality Assured Visitor Attraction continuing for eight successful years.

  Published: Wednesday, 21st February 2018

• Update: Statement from our Elected Mayor on the MLX

  Below is the statement that Dorothy Thornhill, Elected Mayor of Watford, delivered at Council on Tuesday night.

  Published: Thursday, 1st February 2018

• Watford Borough Council’s Museum is hosting two free activities to keep children entertained this half-term

  Come along to Watford Museum this half-term for some fun and free activities.

  Published: Wednesday, 31st January 2018

• Official figures show rough sleeping has halved in Watford

  The newly-published figures for the annual rough sleeper count show that rough sleeping in Watford has halved compared to last year.

  Published: Tuesday, 30th January 2018

• NOT the end of the line for MLX

  Elected Mayor of Watford, Dorothy Thornhill comments on MLX

  Published: Thursday, 25th January 2018

• National acting award for Watford’s teenage champions

  Young people at Watford’s Pump House Children and Youth Theatre group have won two national awards at the National Drama Festivals Association British All Winners Drama Festival.

  Published: Tuesday, 23rd January 2018
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  Graham Taylor exhibition returns to Watford Museum

  Visit Watford Museum to see the Graham Taylor exhibition.

  Published: Wednesday, 10th January 2018
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  Mayor’s charity Christmas card raises over £4,000 for local young people’s charity

  Local charity Signpost presented with cheque from Elected Mayor of Watford

  Published: Wednesday, 6th December 2017

• “High-performing” council praised for “punching above its weight”

  Watford Borough Council has been recognised as a “high-performing, bold and progressive council” after a visit by a team of assessors from the Local Government Association (LGA).

  Published: Wednesday, 6th December 2017

• Winter in Watford offers festive fun for everyone!

  ***Festive family fun for everyone at Winter in Watford***

  Published: Friday, 1st December 2017
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  Watford’s Big Skate is back for its fourth year

  Book your tickets for the Big Skate.

  Published: Tuesday, 21st November 2017
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  Have your say on what’s important to Watford

  Residents in Watford are being asked to share their views in this year's Community Survey.

  Published: Monday, 13th November 2017

• Illegally dumped waste leads to prosecution

  Watford Borough Council successfully prosecutes Hertfordshire resident for not ensuring his unwanted rubbish was properly disposed of.

  Published: Thursday, 9th November 2017

• More than 100 new cycle spaces at Watford Junction

  Watford Borough Council and London Midland are providing 142 additional spaces for cyclists at Watford Junction Railway Station – so there’s no excuse but to get on your bike!

  Published: Wednesday, 25th October 2017

• New study to explore options for 20mph speed zones in Watford

  Watford Borough Council and 20’s Plenty for Watford have won a grant from Hertfordshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner’s Road Safety Fund.

  Published: Monday, 23rd October 2017

• Citizens of Watford rewarded for their good deeds in Audentior Awards

  The great and good of Watford have been rewarded for their dedication to making the town a fantastic place to live at Watford Borough Council’s annual Audentior Awards.

  Published: Wednesday, 11th October 2017

• Watford apprentice wins national award

  Veolia celebrates its apprentices’ success at House of Commons awards ceremony

  Published: Tuesday, 12th September 2017

• Travellers leave Watford Fields

  The travellers in Watford Fields left the area last night (Sunday 10 September) – a day before our scheduled Court hearing to request an Order to evict them.

  Published: Monday, 11th September 2017

• Passengers planning to use Euston station over the August bank holiday asked to avoid rail travel unless essential

  Passengers who use Euston station to travel to and from London are asked to avoid rail travel for two days over the August bank holiday while works takes place to prepare for HS2.

  Published: Tuesday, 22nd August 2017
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  Blue Plaque for historic Watford Colosseum

  Watford Colosseum will receive a Blue Plaque as part of BBC Music Day celebrations, recognising the historic music venue’s outstanding acoustics and ongoing contribution to our musical heritage.

  Published: Thursday, 15th June 2017

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  Published: Friday, 3rd March 2017

• Road closures for the funeral of Watford FC legend Graham Taylor

  The funeral service is to take place at St Mary’s Church in Watford's Church Street from 1pm tomorrow (Wednesday 1 February).

  Published: Tuesday, 31st January 2017

• Skillmakers: supporting local businesses to access skills, information and contacts

  Skillmakers, a free-to-use resource for local businesses to access the skills, information and contacts they need to grow, has now officially launched.

  Published: Monday, 5th December 2016

• Be a winner with Winter in Watford

  One lucky family will win a bumper festive prize package all thanks to the fabulous Winter in Watford competition.

  Published: Monday, 5th December 2016

• Watford secures renewal of Purple Flag Award

  Watford is celebrating after learning it has achieved the prestigious Purple Flag status for its evening and night-time economy (ENTE).

  Published: Friday, 18th November 2016

• New road marks success for Watford Health Campus regeneration scheme

  The successful completion of the first phase of the £350m Health Campus regeneration scheme is being celebrated this week with the official opening of the new road into the 26 hectare site.

  Published: Thursday, 17th November 2016

• New road to Watford Hospital named after local hero

  Watford has paid a very special tribute to local hero Captain Thomas Sawyer, who was killed in Afghanistan in 2009 at the age of 26, naming the new road to Watford Hospital after him.

  Published: Thursday, 17th November 2016

• Watford Central Library launches new creative space

  Watford Central Library is having a festival launch weekend from Friday 4 November to Sunday 6 November.

  Published: Thursday, 3rd November 2016

• High Court Decision Upholds Secretary of State’s Decision on Farm Terrace allotments

  The High Court has today upheld the decision that allows Farm Terrace allotments to be used for the benefit of the Watford Health Campus scheme.

  Published: Thursday, 3rd November 2016

• Town centre business awards launched

  Businesses in Watford town centre offering excellent service to their customers and clients have been invited to enter a new awards scheme launched by Watford BID.

  Published: Thursday, 27th October 2016

• Help your local community: apply for Watford Council’s Small Grants Fund

  Lots of local community groups have already benefited from Watford Borough Council’s Small Grants Fund.

  Published: Wednesday, 26th October 2016

• Watford High Street set for a magical Christmas switch-on

  Join the Snow King and Queen for a magical celebration as they switch on the Christmas tree and lights around the pond on The Parade, Watford High Street, on Thursday 10 November.

  Published: Monday, 24th October 2016
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  Citizens of Watford rewarded for their good deeds in our Audentior Awards

  The great and good of Watford have been rewarded for their dedication to making the town a fantastic place to live in Watford Borough Council’s annual Audentior Awards.

  Published: Wednesday, 12th October 2016

• The Big Draw is Back

  As part of the national Big Draw festival, Watford Museum is giving everyone the chance to get creative at its very own Big Draw workshop on Saturday 15 October, 11am to 4pm.

  Published: Wednesday, 12th October 2016

• Herts Police offer advice on clown reports

  Hertfordshire Constabulary is issuing further advice following more reports of people dressed as clowns, which is causing distress to some people.

  Published: Tuesday, 11th October 2016

• Night time road closures for High Street resurfacing

  We are re-surfacing the High Street between Water Lane and King Street overnight, starting tonight - Monday 10 October.

  Published: Monday, 10th October 2016

• Stay travel savvy: the British Masters at The Grove

  The Grove is hosting the British Masters golf tournament on 12-16 October. To ensure the success of the event and minimise the impact on our roads, temporary road restrictions will be in place.

  Published: Friday, 23rd September 2016

• Big Sport Day fitness fun bonanza

  Watford town centre’s The Parade will be transformed by trampolines, giant zorbs, a BMX course, climbing wall, athletics track and more during the FREE Big Sports Day extravaganza this Saturday.

  Published: Monday, 5th September 2016

• Big Screen on the Beach Bank Holiday bonanza

  Watford’s Big Screen on the Beach ends this Bank Holiday weekend and it is going out with a bang.

  Published: Tuesday, 23rd August 2016

• Watford Museum remembers the Battle of the Somme with 1916 exhibition

  Watford Museum is joining in the 100-year commemoration of WWI’s Battle of the Somme with an exhibition charting the town’s response to the war in 1916.

  Published: Wednesday, 17th August 2016

• Celebrate the start of the new season with Watford FC history

  Watford Museum is exhibiting three of Watford FC’s trophies, which best represent over 100 years of the club’s successes.

  Published: Wednesday, 17th August 2016

• New sickness management framework could save time and money for organisations across the UK

  Implementing a new 24/7 nurse-led absence management framework could save time and money for organisations across the country, say bosses at Watford Borough Council.

  Published: Monday, 15th August 2016

• Eviction notice served on travellers in Oxhey Park

  Watford Council has asked travellers who moved onto Oxhey Park today to leave the park and we are taking legal action to ensure that they do so.

  Published: Thursday, 11th August 2016

• Vicarage Road closed until 19 August

  Urgent repair work to a collapsed sewer under Vicarage Road is being carried out by Thames Water.

  Published: Thursday, 11th August 2016

• Rio 2016 is coming to Big Screen on the Beach

  Watford Council is bringing a slice of Rio to the town and showing the Olympic Games highlights at Big Screen on the Beach from 6 – 21 August.

  Published: Wednesday, 3rd August 2016

• Watford Council’s insulation scheme commended by government

  Watford Borough Council’s insulation scheme on the Harebreaks estate has been held up as an excellent example by the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC).

  Published: Wednesday, 3rd August 2016

• Watford taxi drivers put child safeguarding first

  More than 140 taxi and minicab drivers recently attended Watford Borough Council-led training to update their child safeguarding knowledge.

  Published: Wednesday, 3rd August 2016

• Sky Ride is back in Watford

  The summer Sky Ride is back in Watford and is here to stay. The next Sky Ride will take place 31 July at Chaffinch Lane, at 10am for two hours thirty minutes.

  Published: Tuesday, 2nd August 2016

• Widening the High Street footpath

  As you can probably already tell, a lot of work is going on in Watford, especially on the High Street.

  Published: Monday, 1st August 2016

• Getting Together social club's 1950s celebration

  Getting Together social clubs are no strangers to a good “knees up”, April’s 1940s indoor street party can attest to that. July 28th saw the Holywell Community Centre rocking back to the 1950s.

  Published: Monday, 1st August 2016

• Big Screen on the Beach launches this Saturday!

  This Saturday 30 July, Watford Borough Council’s two-in-one event, Big Screen on the Beach, launches with some heavyweight blockbusters and tonnes of sandy activity.

  Published: Thursday, 28th July 2016

• Topgolf takeover at Big Screen on the Beach

  There will be a Topgolf takeover at Watford Council’s Big Screen on the Beach this summer

  Published: Friday, 15th July 2016

• Museums in Motion

  'Museums in Motion' is a brand new dance and heritage inspired film installation that is opening at Watford Museum for summer 2016.

  Published: Monday, 11th July 2016

• ‘Dismayed’: Elected Mayor blasts train cancellations for thousands of commuters

  Southern Railway’s decision to axe train services between Watford Junction and Clapham Junction with just a few days’ notice has been criticised by Elected Mayor of Watford Baroness Dorothy Thornhill.

  Published: Thursday, 7th July 2016

• Big Screen on the Beach

  Big Screen on the Beach will be kicking off on Saturday 30 July and finishing on Bank Holiday Monday on 29 August at the Parade in the centre of town. 

  Published: Wednesday, 6th July 2016

• Watford's in bloom

  Watford town centre is packed full of flowers, thanks to Watford BID businesses.

  Published: Monday, 4th July 2016

• Met Line Extension update

  Utilities work on Baldwins Lane and Watford Road continue as part of the Metropolitan Line Extension.

  Published: Wednesday, 29th June 2016

• Watford local warns people not to get caught out by flytippers

  Watford resident Stewart Wilson, 39, is warning people about the dangers of giving rubbish to cold callers, after he was recently scammed.

  Published: Tuesday, 28th June 2016

• New bus stops to hit High Street

  There are plans for two new bus stops to be added at the lower section of Watford High Street, with works due to start Monday 27 June.

  Published: Thursday, 23rd June 2016
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  Great-grandmother's call for action on Audentior

  A great-grandmother who ran fundraising breakfasts from her front room is calling on Watford to nominate its everyday heroes in the annual Audentior Awards.

  Published: Wednesday, 22nd June 2016

• Archaeological adventures in Cassiobury Park

  More than 150 people turned out for the free Archaeological Dig Open Day in Watford’s Cassiobury Park at the weekend.

  Published: Monday, 20th June 2016

• Watford’s aristocratic past: Everyone invited to Archaeological Dig Open Day

  There will be a FREE ‘Archaeological Dig Open Day’ in Watford’s Cassiobury Park on Saturday, and everyone is invited.

  Published: Thursday, 16th June 2016

• Annual Statement of Accounts Financial Year 2015-16

  The council publishes its Statement of Accounts annually to illustrate the authority’s financial position as at the end of the financial year and the transactions within that year.

  Published: Thursday, 16th June 2016

• Watford’s extraordinary open air performance festival returns for sixth year

  Imagine Watford returns to the streets for its sixth spectacular year.

  Published: Tuesday, 14th June 2016

• Brilliant Big Dance brings in thousands…

  Thousands of extra people came to Watford town centre on Sunday because of free extravaganza the Big Dance.

  Published: Tuesday, 7th June 2016

• Watford Borough Council receives decision on Farm Terrace Allotments

  The council has today received a decision from the Secretary of State (SofS) for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) that it can go ahead with its plans to appropriate the Farm Terrace allotments.

  Published: Thursday, 26th May 2016

• History of iconic double-decker bus to be performed during Watford Big Dance

  The story of London’s iconic red double-decker Routemaster bus will be told in dance during a professional routine before amateur performers take over the stage during Watford Big Dance.

  Published: Wednesday, 25th May 2016

• Archaeological Dig Open Day at Cassiobury Park

  The public and any budding archaeologists will have the opportunity to attend an ‘Archaeological Dig Open Day’ in Watford's Cassiobury Park on Saturday 18 June from 11am to 3pm, and it's FREE.

  Published: Wednesday, 25th May 2016

• Benefits cheat prosecuted by Watford Borough Council for the second time

  A repeat benefits cheat who didn’t learn his lesson after being caught out by Watford Borough Council in 2010 has again been prosecuted for defrauding the system.

  Published: Thursday, 12th May 2016

• Liberal Democrats Take 25 Seats in Local Elections

  The Liberal Democrats have a large majority following all out local elections. Labour won a total of 11 seats.

  Published: Saturday, 7th May 2016

• Bus service changes

  Bus service changes have been agreed and implemented.

  Published: Thursday, 5th May 2016

• Election results announced

  The Liberal Democrats won 25 seats at this years local election making them the largest party in the council with a majority of 8.

  Published: Thursday, 5th May 2016

• Microchipped Monty urges others to follow in his 'paw-steps'

  Brave Monty the puppy is helping Watford Borough Council show how easy it is for dogs to get microchipped so they are never lost for long from their owners.

  Published: Wednesday, 4th May 2016

• Big Word Fest brings the spirit of Dahl to Watford Museum

  Last week, Watford Museum was teeming with young children keen to hear Roald Dahl’s stories The Twits and The BFG.

  Published: Friday, 22nd April 2016

• Big Word Fest draws to a close on St George’s Day

  Watford’s first literature festival Big Word Fest will end with a performance of Shakespeare on the Streets to celebrate England’s greatest poet and playwright on St George’s Day.

  Published: Wednesday, 20th April 2016

• Watford’s Firefighters give children a lesson in CPR

  As part of its role in Safer Watford – the town’s community safety partnership – Watford’s Garston-based Firefighters have delivered a session on CPR and choking to Year 6 pupils.

  Published: Monday, 18th April 2016

• Candidates announced for Watford’s local elections

  The candidates standing in Watford Borough Council’s ward elections on 5 May have been announced.

  Published: Friday, 8th April 2016

• Mr Twit's disgusterous beard and the Big Friendly Giant: Don't miss out on museum adventures!

  Learn about the horrible Twits and create your own disgusterous, hairy, bristly beard or hear the story of the friendliest giant and create your own fizzing, whizzing golden dream.

  Published: Thursday, 7th April 2016

• High-flying success for Better Business for All Hertfordshire

  The Better Business for All (BBfA) Partnership between Hertfordshire’s councils and businesses has become the only initiative of its kind in the UK to be shortlisted for two national awards.

  Published: Wednesday, 6th April 2016

• ‘Show your dog how much you love them’: Get them microchipped today

  Statistics released today by Watford Borough Council show how important it is for dog-owners to have their pets microchipped so that they will never parted from them.

  Published: Wednesday, 23rd March 2016

• Watford marks Commonwealth Day and commemorates First World War

  This week Watford marked Commonwealth Day by raising the Commonwealth flag.

  Published: Thursday, 17th March 2016

• Hundreds take part in Big Word Fest’s Dahl celebrations

  Almost 800 people flocked to Watford Council’s Roald Dahl celebrations on Saturday 12 March.

  Published: Monday, 14th March 2016

• Where’s the bandstand going?

  The historic Cassiobury Bandstand is being taken for a revamp before being returned to its home in the park.

  Published: Thursday, 10th March 2016

• Former traffic warden prosecuted by Watford Borough Council for benefits fraud

  A former traffic warden has been convicted of benefit fraud after failing to declare that he had found new employment.

  Published: Tuesday, 8th March 2016

• Watford prepares for a Dahl-tastic parade

  The town’s first literary festival kicks off in style on Saturday 12 March with a wacky Roald Dahl parade and plenty of arts and crafts shenanigans. And it’s all free.

  Published: Monday, 7th March 2016

• Moving ahead with our major projects

  The Metropolitan Line Extension and Watford Health Campus projects are full steam ahead, with works gathering pace this spring. Unfortunately, as a result there will be some disruption on the roads but please bear with us, Watford remains open for business.

  Published: Thursday, 25th February 2016

• Big Word Fest

  To mark a year filled with literary milestones, we have announced our first ever literary festival.

  Published: Thursday, 25th February 2016

• Watford's Spring Clean

  To welcome in the spring, the council is launching a two-week town-wide spring clean on Friday 4 March, and is looking for local residents to get involved.

  Published: Monday, 15th February 2016

• Holocaust survivor makes plea to younger generation ‘Tell the world our story because we will not be here’

  Speaking at a Holocaust Memorial Day event at Watford Synagogue, Holocaust survivor Lily Ebert urged students present to “Tell the world our story because in a few years’ time we will not be here."

  Published: Friday, 12th February 2016

• Right to Rent goes live across England

  Right to Rent has now gone live across England.

  Published: Friday, 12th February 2016

• The regeneration of Ascot Road

  Watford Borough Council has signed a new 250 year lease with regeneration specialist Orion Land and Leisure for their site by Ascot Road, West Watford.

  Published: Thursday, 11th February 2016

• Investing in the future of the town centre

  As part of the plans for improving the town centre, Watford Borough Council is proposing to widen the pavement on the western side of the High Street, between the Met Quarter and Water Lane.

  Published: Thursday, 11th February 2016

• Herts Inclusive Theatre win Watford’s first pancake race

  Four young people from Herts Inclusive Theatre have been crowned the champions of Watford’s first ever pancake race around the pond.

  Published: Wednesday, 10th February 2016

• Valentine’s Day diners advised to avoid nasty surprises by checking restaurant ratings

  Nearly 80% of food and drinks outlets in Watford have received top scores for hygiene – but Valentine’s Day diners are reminded to check these ratings before eating out.

  Published: Wednesday, 10th February 2016

• Moving ahead with Watford Health Campus

  Another important step has been reached in the creation of the Watford Health Campus with the government approval of the scheme’s CPO (Compulsory Purchase Order).

  Published: Monday, 8th February 2016

• Green spaces in Watford

  Cabinet on 8 February will discuss the progress of the council’s green spaces strategy.

  Published: Monday, 8th February 2016

• Giving Watford residents better access to over 7000 new jobs in the town

  A new community interest company is being set up, supported by Watford Borough Council and Hertfordshire LEP, to bring education and employment closer together.

  Published: Thursday, 4th February 2016

• Wild art in Whippendell Woods and mini beasts in Cassiobury Park

  Children in Watford aged 10 and under are invited to take a walk on the wild side in Whippendell Woods this half term.

  Published: Monday, 1st February 2016

• Temporary closure of Sutton car park

  Visitors to the town centre should note that Sutton car park will be closed for nine days from Monday 1 February, for essential repair works to the exit ramps.

  Published: Monday, 1st February 2016

• New £4,500 ramps imported from the States for Watford skateboarders to use for free

  Skateboarding in Watford just got even better because Watford Borough Council has imported £4,500 worth of specialist equipment from the USA that people can now use for free.

  Published: Wednesday, 27th January 2016

• Contract awarded for restoration of Cassiobury Park

  Watford Borough Council has appointed Borras Construction to carry out the £6.6m Heritage Lottery and Big Lottery funded restoration of Cassiobury Park.

  Published: Monday, 25th January 2016

• Riverside Recreation Ground gets a new look

  Visitors to Riverside Recreation Ground are in for a treat, as the council has just installed a new play area, an adult gym, a multi-use games court and picnic benches.

  Published: Monday, 25th January 2016

• Council BIG Events-funded animation scoops award at London Short Film Festival

  An animation that was originally funded by Watford Borough Council and broadcast in Watford town centre won a prestigious award at the London Short Film Festival at the weekend.

  Published: Friday, 22nd January 2016

• Tell us what living in a conservation area means to you

  Watford residents are invited to give their views on living in a conservation area at a drop-in session with councillors.

  Published: Wednesday, 20th January 2016

• Watford cabinet proposes freeze to council tax

  Watford Council will consider freezing council tax for the seventh year in row following a recommendation from Watford's cabinet meeting on Monday (18 January).

  Published: Wednesday, 20th January 2016

• Expect some delays on the road in Watford

  Lots of major developments in Watford step up a gear in 2016, so residents and visitors are asked to bear with us, as Watford remains open for business.

  Published: Wednesday, 13th January 2016

• Council’s insulation scheme is keeping Watford snug

  Watford Council has been putting government funding to good use by installing external wall insulation in homes around the town.

  Published: Wednesday, 13th January 2016

• Building a new road to improve access to Watford Hospital

  A section of Wiggenhall Road will be closed to southbound traffic (towards Bushey/ Oxhey and Eastbury Road) from 11 January 2016 for around 6 weeks

  Published: Wednesday, 23rd December 2015

• Council playdays bring fun galore to the children of Watford

  Watford Borough Council made sure children got an extra special treat for their summer holidays by staging three free Playdays in a row in open spaces across the area.

  Published: Tuesday, 15th December 2015

• Champion boxer Hannah Beharry visits Watford boxing club

  Champion boxer Hannah Beharry visited a local boxing club, to show her support for a series of free boxing sessions supported by Watford Borough Council.

  Published: Tuesday, 15th December 2015

• BAFTA-winning script writer says commuters were inspiration for Watford animation

  The BAFTA-winning writer who helped create an animation that will be shown tonight for the first time for free in Watford says commuters inspired her script.

  Published: Tuesday, 8th December 2015
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  Local electoral arrangements finalised for Watford Borough Council

  The independent Local Government Boundary Commission for England has published its final recommendations for new electoral arrangements for Watford Borough Council.

  Published: Tuesday, 8th December 2015

• Road closure early warning

  A section of Wiggenhall Road will be closed to southbound traffic (towards Bushey/ Oxhey and Eastbury Road) from 11 January 2016 for around 6 weeks

  Published: Monday, 30th November 2015

• Enjoy Winter in Watford with us

  Celebrate the winter season in Watford with ice skating, festive shows, a Christmas market, Santa's grotto and more.

  Published: Monday, 30th November 2015

• Restoration of Watford Heath complete

  Watford Borough Council continues to improve the town’s green spaces, with the restoration of Watford Heath now complete.

  Published: Thursday, 26th November 2015

• Complete council exercise survey and you could win a prize

  Filling in a short survey could help residents get the exercise classes they are looking for as Watford Council is asking for views on sports and fitness classes that people really enjoy.

  Published: Tuesday, 24th November 2015

• Freestyle ice dancers to open Watford’s Big Skate

  Watford’s outdoor ice rink opens its doors at 11am this Saturday.

  Published: Tuesday, 24th November 2015

• Annual Audit of accounts Financial Year 2014-15

  The audit of the council's accounts for the financial year ending 31 March 2015 has been completed.

  Published: Friday, 20th November 2015

• Register to vote now if you haven’t already, or you’ll miss the deadline

  Watford Borough Council is urging people who have been invited to register to vote to respond now before the deadline on Monday.

  Published: Thursday, 19th November 2015

• Clean sweep for local roads

  A deep clean of 21 streets across the town is currently taking place, as part of the council’s commitment to keeping Watford clean green, and safe.

  Published: Thursday, 12th November 2015

• Improving parking in West Watford

  At Cabinet on 2 November, Members agreed to a final round of informal consultation with residents within controlled parking zone (cpz) M/N .

  Published: Thursday, 12th November 2015

• Transformation of Watford continues with multi-million pound redevelopment of shopping centre

  The creation of the one of the largest retail destinations in the UK has started in Watford town centre.

  Published: Wednesday, 11th November 2015

• Operation Clamp: Two fined as crackdown on blue badge misuse continues

  Two further people have been prosecuted as part of the ongoing Operation Clamp campaign by Watford Borough Council and Herts Police.

  Published: Tuesday, 10th November 2015

• Free WiFi launched in Watford's sheltered housing schemes

  Watford Borough Council and intechnologyWiFi today announced that free WiFi has been installed across Watford’s community centres and sheltered housing schemes.

  Published: Tuesday, 3rd November 2015

• Funding to help local groups make a difference

  Local Community Interest Company HertsCreation, were awarded £1000 from Watford Borough Council to help fund an innovative arts project for young people.

  Published: Tuesday, 3rd November 2015
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  Council funds black box for community radio station

  Watford Borough Council has helped fund a popular community radio station by providing £2,000 from its Small Grants Fund to pay for equipment to keep it on air.

  Published: Monday, 2nd November 2015

• Businesses vote yes for a BID

  Businesses have voted to say yes to setting up a BID. It is set to deliver around £3 million of investment in a range of exciting town centre projects over the next five years and provide a coordinating voice to unite its businesses and communities.

  Published: Friday, 30th October 2015

• Respond to your household enquiry form now

  Watford Borough Council has now had responses to its household enquiry forms about the electoral roll from all bar about 4,000 households in the area.

  Published: Thursday, 29th October 2015

• Council works to remove invasive weed from Watford

  Areas in Watford affected by the invasive Japanese knotweed will be fenced off shortly, by Watford Borough Council, so that it can start to remove it from the town.

  Published: Thursday, 22nd October 2015

• Free business support for Watford residents

  Budding entrepreneurs from across Watford can access free online guidance from professional business mentors.

  Published: Thursday, 22nd October 2015

• Hefty costs for two women who misused blue badges to park close to town

  Two women stopped on the same day for using blue badges illegally have been prosecuted after Watford Borough Council and Herts Police launched Operation Clamp.

  Published: Wednesday, 21st October 2015

• Council encourages people to have their say on proposed ward boundary changes

  Watford Borough Council is encouraging people who live in their area to have their say about plans to change its ward boundaries.

  Published: Thursday, 15th October 2015

• Council funds five new vans to help keep Watford’s parks in tip top condition

  Watford Borough Council has invested in five new vans to collect litter from the town’s parks to ensure they remain as clean and green as possible while saving taxpayers money.

  Published: Wednesday, 14th October 2015

• Last chance to have your say on Watford Borough Council's ward boundaries

  There are just a few days left for local people to tell the independent Local Government Boundary Commission for England

  Published: Tuesday, 13th October 2015

• Creepy Cassiobury Eerie Event

  From 5.30pm on Friday 30 October ghosts and zombies will take over Cassiobury park.

  Published: Thursday, 8th October 2015

• 49 double-deckers worth of autumn leaves

  Veolia, Watford Borough Council’s waste partner, collected around 617 tonnes of leaves and litter last autumn in Watford

  Published: Thursday, 8th October 2015

• Celebration of local heroes at Audentior Awards 2015

  Watford honoured the outstanding work carried out by individuals and organisations in the community last Friday at Watford Colosseum.

  Published: Wednesday, 7th October 2015

• New smoke and carbon monoxide alarm legislation for rented properties

  New legislation which came into force on 1 October 2015 requires landlords at the start of a new tenancy to fit a smoke alarm on every floor of rented accommodation and install a carbon monoxide alarm

  Published: Wednesday, 7th October 2015

• Man ordered to start paying the thousands he owes in council tax – or face prison

  A man who racked up thousands of pounds worth of debt in unpaid council tax has been ordered to start repaying the money he owes now – or face prison.

  Published: Wednesday, 7th October 2015

• Banishing plastic bags from our town

  Starting today, large shops in Watford and across the country will have to charge five pence for all single use plastic carrier bags they provide.

  Published: Monday, 5th October 2015

• Big Events Diwali celebrations to light up Watford

  The next in the Big Events series is set to bring colour, lights and culture to the heart of Watford.

  Published: Monday, 5th October 2015

• Council in bid for funding to put Watford Museum on the map

  Watford Museum is applying to the Heritage Lottery Fund for some money to completely refurbish their Grade II listed home.

  Published: Wednesday, 23rd September 2015

• Calling all budding artists to Watford Museum

  Watford Museum is taking part in the national Big Draw event on Saturday 3 October with lots of free activities for children and adults alike.

  Published: Wednesday, 23rd September 2015

• Harry the Hornet, Big Cig and Pepper Pig to do battle in Big Sports Day mascot race

  Watford FC may have won their first match of the season, but Harry the Hornet’s challenge will come during Watford Borough Council’s Big Sports Day on Saturday.

  Published: Friday, 18th September 2015

• 1.3 tonnes of waste removed in one afternoon

  Members of the council’s recycling team, in partnership with Veolia, helped residents to tidy up their street over the weekend, in response to concerns from people in the area.

  Published: Tuesday, 15th September 2015

• Something to provide comfort on a sad day: New tearoom at West Herts Crematorium

  The new Bluebells Tearoom has opened in the scenic grounds of West Herts Crematorium after funding was made available from a committee of five local councils.

  Published: Wednesday, 9th September 2015

• Coffee, tea and cakes to celebrate the Queen

  Chairman of Watford Borough Council Kareen Hastrick marked the day when Queen Elizabeth II became Britain’s longest reigning monarch with some tea and cake at St John’s Church held to mark the occasion

  Published: Wednesday, 9th September 2015

• Mayor and her cabinet to introduce weekend and bank holiday burials for Watford

  Watford Borough Council will now be able to offer weekend and bank holiday burials after a new cemeteries strategy was last night agreed by the mayor and her cabinet.

  Published: Tuesday, 8th September 2015

• Cassiobury Park in the running to be named as the nation’s favourite

  Watford Borough Council is asking residents to vote for their favourite Green Flag park to make it the nations favourite.

  Published: Tuesday, 8th September 2015

• Early birthday present for 80-year-old from the Green Aiders and Watford Borough Council

  A man who will celebrate his 80th birthday on Bank Holiday Monday got an early present when Watford Borough Council sent some ‘Green Aiders’ to spruce up his garden.

  Published: Wednesday, 26th August 2015

• Don’t delay – if you haven’t already, respond to your voter registration forms today!

  Watford Borough Council is reminding residents in the area of the need to respond to its annual voter registration canvass – alongside the 35% who have already responded to it.

  Published: Thursday, 20th August 2015

• Ebury Way is back on track

  Works to repair and restore a bridge over the Grand Union Canal along the Ebury Way have finished and the popular cycle route is open once again.

  Published: Wednesday, 19th August 2015

• Council prosecutes builder after waste was found dumped in someone else's skip

  The director of a small building company has been fined £1,000 for calling “some guys” to remove the waste from a property refurbishment his company was undertaking – without ensuring they had a legitimate waste license.

  Published: Wednesday, 19th August 2015

• Love your bump

  Smoking is the single most modifiable risk factor for adverse outcomes in pregnancy.

  Published: Monday, 17th August 2015

• Respond to your voter registration forms now

  Watford Borough Council has sent forms to 38,600 homes as part of its annual voter registration canvass to help keep the electoral register up-to-date.

  Published: Friday, 7th August 2015

• Dirty Dancing wins Watford Big Screen People’s Choice vote

  Dirty Dancing is the winner of Watford Borough Council's People's Choice vote and will be shown on Watford's very own outdoor cinema, the Big Screen.

  Published: Friday, 7th August 2015

• Discover Watford’s rich heritage with free events and openings across the town

  Watford, dating back to the 12th century, is home to many hidden gems which hold secrets to the past. Churches, the town hall, a brewery and a mosque are amongst the venues that will open their doors for Heritage Open Days for one weekend from Thursday 10 to Sunday 13 September.

  Published: Wednesday, 5th August 2015

• Benefit cheat ordered to pay back over 11,000

  After an investigation by Watford Borough Council and the Department of Work Pensions (DWP) a former Watford resident has pleaded guilty to four offences of benefit fraud. All overpayments, totalling £11,232.80, are to be repaid to Watford Borough Council, the DWP and HMRC.

  Published: Wednesday, 5th August 2015

• Big Beach leaves Watford but Big Screen is on the way

  Watford Big Beach came to a triumphant close yesterday on one of the hottest days of the year.

  Published: Tuesday, 4th August 2015

• Landlord pleads guilty after property found to be a potential death-trap

  Following an investigation by Watford Borough Council and joint action with the Fire and Rescue Service, a Watford landlord yesterday pleaded guilty to four offences after failing to protect tenants

  Published: Monday, 3rd August 2015

• Mobile app tells residents about changes in their local area

  A new mobile app has been released this month which tells residents in Hertfordshire about changes in their local area.

  Published: Monday, 3rd August 2015

• Playdays come to Watford: mark the dates in your diary

  As part of Playday, the UK’s national day for play, children aged 5 to 15 and their families are invited to take part in three days of fun activities across Watford – most of which are free.

  Published: Friday, 31st July 2015

• Restoration of Ebury Way bridge

  Works to repair and restore a bridge over the Grand Union Canal along the Ebury Way will continue until 1 August.

  Published: Tuesday, 28th July 2015

• St Mary's Churchyard and Callowland Rec added to list of nations best parks

  Watford residents now have six award-winning parks on their doorstep – and that’s official, with Green Flag’s awarded today to St Mary’s Churchyard and Callowland Recreation Ground.

  Published: Thursday, 23rd July 2015

• Five sisters help keep Watford clean and green through responsible dog ownership

  Five young sisters showed their commitment to responsible dog ownership at an event by the Dogs Trust and Watford Borough Council – where they gave £135 to charity.

  Published: Thursday, 23rd July 2015

• Helping Watford to stay clean and green

  In support of the national Love Where You Live campaign, Watford Borough Council with its partners Veolia, helped a local fast food chain to organise a litter pick in the town.

  Published: Tuesday, 21st July 2015

• Big Screen is back!

  As part of the Big Events – a series of community events put on by Watford Borough Council – Watford’s outdoor cinema, the Big Screen, is back by popular demand.

  Published: Friday, 17th July 2015

• Court tells man: ‘Start paying your council tax or face prison’

  A man who had nearly five years of council tax outstanding has been ordered to start repaying the £9,010.49 he owes – or face prison.

  Published: Tuesday, 14th July 2015

• 7/7 anniversary to be marked

  We will be observing a national minute’s silence today at 11.30am to mark the 10th anniversary of the 7/7 bombings in London.

  Published: Tuesday, 7th July 2015

• Shake Up this summer with Change4Life

  This summer, Change4Life has teamed up with Disney to inspire children in Hertfordshire to get active with the launch of the 10 Minute Shake Up campaign.

  Published: Friday, 3rd July 2015

• Celebrating green travel and road safety in Watford

  Come join us on Wednesday 10 June on The Parade to find out about road safety and how you can travel around town in a more environmentally friendly way.

  Published: Monday, 8th June 2015

• New Chairman takes up role as ‘civic face’ of council and names her Watford charities

  The new Chairman of Watford Borough Council has been named as Councillor Kareen Hastrick.

  Published: Thursday, 28th May 2015

• Beat the street

  Beat the Street is a real-life walking and cycling challenge, which aims to get the whole community in Watford moving.

  Published: Wednesday, 27th May 2015

• New scheme helps vulnerable adults to ‘Think Safe’

  A new project to educate vulnerable adults about keeping safe is being hailed a success.

  Published: Tuesday, 19th May 2015

• A night of mystical, magical wonders at Watford Museum

  This Saturday 16 May, 6pm-10pm, Watford Museum is coming alive at night as part of Culture 24’s Museums at Night festival.

  Published: Thursday, 14th May 2015

• Making Croxley count for the community

  Now the Government has given the green light to the Met Line extension, Hertfordshire County Council will work with partners to ensure the expected community benefits are realised.

  Published: Wednesday, 13th May 2015

• Have your say on new ward boundaries for Watford

  The independent Local Government Boundary Commission for England is asking local people for their help to draw up a new pattern of council wards for Watford Borough Council.

  Published: Tuesday, 12th May 2015

• Don't forget to vote: Find your polling station here

  There are just a few hours left to vote and have your say in the local and general elections today (Thursday 7 May).

  Published: Thursday, 7th May 2015

• Council catches mum and daughter who collected £200k while claiming benefits

  A mother and daughter have pleaded guilty to multiple fraud offences after an investigation led by Watford Borough Council discovered they had more than £200,000 while claiming benefits.

  Published: Thursday, 7th May 2015

• Rebecca Ferguson to headline Watford’s Big Summer Sounds

  Following the release of her third album - a remake of Billie Holiday’s iconic Lady Sings The Blues – X Factor star Rebecca Ferguson is headlining Watford’s Big Summer Sounds on Sunday 17 May.

  Published: Tuesday, 5th May 2015

• Bands gear up for Watford Borough Council’s free music festival Big Summer Sounds

  Two of the bands who will perform at Watford Borough Council’s free music festival, Big Summer Sounds, say they can’t wait to experience the buzz of the town.

  Published: Tuesday, 5th May 2015

• Blue badge cheat fined as part of Operation Clamp

  Another motorist has been prosecuted for blue badge misuse as Watford Borough Council and Herts Police continue to implement Operation Clamp.

  Published: Tuesday, 28th April 2015

• Free compost for Watford residents

  To say thank you to Watford residents for recycling, we are giving away free bags of compost this Thursday 30 April between 4 and 6pm.

  Published: Tuesday, 28th April 2015

• Spring clean for the pond on The Parade

  The pond on the parade is having a spring clean which is why the fountains have been turned off temporarily.

  Published: Thursday, 23rd April 2015

• Election candidates announced by Watford Borough Council

  Watford Borough Council can now officially announce the parliamentary candidates who will be standing to represent the area in the general election on Thursday 7 May.

  Published: Thursday, 9th April 2015

• Candidates for election to be announced tomorrow

  The names of the parliamentary candidates who are standing to represent the Watford constituency will be formally announced tomorrow before 5pm.

  Published: Wednesday, 8th April 2015

• Struggling for ideas of what to do during the children’s Easter break? Then read this

  There are lots of fun activities happening across Watford during the school Easter holidays, many of which are free.

  Published: Thursday, 2nd April 2015

• Recycling for your children’s future: birthday treat for tot who loves bin lorries

  Aryan Kardani got a special treat for his second birthday when Elected Mayor Dorothy Thornhill invited him onto on one of Watford Borough Council’s bin lorries.

  Published: Wednesday, 25th March 2015

• New traders and improvements to Watford Market

  New Watford Market is settling into its new home in the centre of town with three new traders setting up shop, and lots more improvements planned.

  Published: Tuesday, 24th March 2015

• Improving Watford town centre for businesses and visitors

  Further improvement works are nearing completion at the top of the town in support of local businesses and to encourage more visitors to Watford.

  Published: Monday, 23rd March 2015

• Jamaica High Commissioner celebrates partnership with Watford

  Jamaica High Commissioner Aloun Ndombet-Assamba was greeted by Council Chairman George Derbyshire during a special visit to Watford Borough Council.

  Published: Monday, 23rd March 2015

• Protecting Watford's heritage

  Watford Borough Council has beefed up security at Watford Museum with the installation of CCTV and intruder alarms monitored 24/7 from a town centre control room.

  Published: Monday, 23rd March 2015

• Council Chairman raises hundreds of pounds to help charities in Watford

  Chairman of Watford Borough Council George Derbyshire raised about £660 for his two charities by hosting an Evening at the Opera on Sunday.

  Published: Friday, 20th March 2015

• A new playground for Berry Avenue

  Children from Cherry Tree School, the Mayor and local councillors celebrated the re-opening of the Berry Avenue playground.

  Published: Thursday, 19th March 2015

• Council joins local authorities across UK in Single Commemorative Act for Great War

  Watford Borough Council joined local authorities nation-wide yesterday in a Single Commemorative Act of remembrance to all those who died fighting for the Commonwealth in the First World War.

  Published: Tuesday, 10th March 2015

• Mayor launches first Cassiobury parkrun... and it’s attended by Olympic marathon runner

  Persistent rain did nothing to dampen the mood at Cassiobury Park on Saturday as 157 runners completed the inaugural 'Cassiobury parkrun'.

  Published: Wednesday, 4th March 2015

• Partnership work helps nab two crooks who tried to steal tablet in broad daylight

  Watford Borough Council’s town enforcement officer helped police catch two crooks who brazenly walked off with a tablet from a shop window display in broad daylight.

  Published: Tuesday, 17th February 2015

• CIL is coming...

  The introduction of the Community Infrastructure Levy means that extra information will be required in all planning applications submitted to the council.

  Published: Monday, 16th February 2015

• Coach to teach people how to use equipment in free outdoor gyms

  Everyone is invited to Watford’s outdoor gyms for free sessions on how to use the equipment, led by a qualified coach.

  Published: Thursday, 29th January 2015

• Dine out Tuesday lunch club at Centrepoint Community Centre

  The ‘Dine Out Tuesday’ lunch club has been organised the Radlett Road Community Association, who divide tasks such as laying tables, serving food and washing up between them.

  Published: Monday, 26th January 2015

• Boxing club saved from closure

  A popular boxing club has been saved from closure after a community effort to help its members find a new home.

  Published: Monday, 19th January 2015

• Reclaiming Watford's heritage

  Residents who enjoy a bracing winter walk are encouraged to visit the recently refurbished Waterfields Recreation Ground, close to the town centre.

  Published: Wednesday, 14th January 2015

• Ancient bowl from Watford Museum could be worth £100,000

  A mysterious object from Watford Museum has sparked international interest after the discovery that it could be worth up to £100,000.

  Published: Thursday, 8th January 2015

• Got an idea about how to reduce waste?

  Local businesses, charities and voluntary groups are being called upon to join together to prevent waste.

  Published: Thursday, 8th January 2015

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