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Funding of £16m 'will breathe new life' into town

Watford Borough Council An artist's impression of what an updated Watford Colosseum, an entertainment building, in Watford, could look like. It shows a large brick building with people outside, signage and lights. Watford Borough Council
The Art Deco Watford Colosseum is currently closed and due to open again in 2025

Council bosses hope to see "new life" breathed into a town centre after £16m of government funding for two major projects was confirmed.

Watford's Grade II listed town hall will be transformed and become the new home for the town's museum and a business hub.

The currently closed Watford Colosseum will be restored and become an entertainment venue, to be run by private company AEG Presents.

Watford Borough Council said: "These landmark projects are expected to increase visitors to Watford, generate new jobs, and provide a strong foundation for the town’s continued success."

Watford Borough Council An artist's impression of an updated Watford Town Hall. It shows a large brick building, with more than 30 large windows. There are people outside a sloped area, with trees and bushes, places to sit and ramps for people in wheelchairs. The building is red brick with a green roof.Watford Borough Council
The council called Watford Town Hall "an iconic" building

Funding applications were submitted to the previous government and have both now been given the go-ahead following a review of UK Levelling Up Fund projects.

Under the plans, the town hall complex will become an innovation hub designed to give flexible space for businesses to launch or grow.

Funding of £2.45m from The National Lottery Heritage Fund will be used to create the museum.

Watford Colosseum is due to reopen in October 2025 once renovations are complete.

Watford's elected mayor, Liberal Democrat Peter Taylor, said: "This funding will help us unlock economic growth, create new jobs, and deliver exciting new spaces for our community.

"It is a big vote of confidence in Watford’s future."

Watford Borough Council An artist's impression of what the renovated Watford Colosseum could look like. It shows an auditorium with grey and purple chairs in rows, a stage, with three people on it, three other people standing in the room and light rigs above. The room has three large windows on the right hand side.Watford Borough Council
One of the first acts to perform at the renovated Watford Colosseum is due to be Level 42

Matt Turmaine, Labour MP for Watford, said: "The investment will help deliver a vibrant community and business hub that will support both existing and new enterprises.

"It’s a real and significant step forward in strengthening Watford’s economic future."

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