Topping Out Ceremony at Watford Riverwell

On 14th February 2025 a major milestone was reached at the Watford Riverwell regeneration project – celebrated with the topping out of Block 10; 12 affordable housing homes situated in a four-storey block of maisonettes as part of Avenues. This significant event marked the completion of the highest point of construction for the first phase of the Avenues residential development, which consists of 62 private dwellings, 23 affordable units, 20 of which are for social rent and, when complete, will deliver sustainable housing for both new and future communities in Watford.

The ceremony was attended by representatives from Kier Property, Watford Borough Council (WBC), Watford Community Housing Trust (WCHT), Kier Construction and Watford’s Mayor Peter Taylor, all of whom recognised the progress made on this transformative project.

Avenues forms part of the wider Watford Riverwell regeneration, delivers 85 high-quality, energy-efficient homes, designed to meet the needs of the community while promoting sustainability. The affordable homes have been designed with a strong emphasis on communal green spaces, pedestrian-friendly streets, and future-proofed infrastructure, ensuring a positive and lasting impact for generations to come.

The joint venture between Kier Property and Watford Borough Council continues to drive forward the Watford Riverwell regeneration. Key achievements include the Mayfield Residential Retirement Village, offering high-quality later-living facilities, the restoration of the River Colne, the landscaped Colne Island Park, commercial developments, an award-winning multi-storey car park, and Thomas Sawyer Way, the vital 1.5km access road to Watford General Hospital.  With additional phases of the project progressing through the planning process, including Avenues Phase 2 and the new Neighbourhood Square, these phases will further enhance the area with more homes, community spaces, and improved connectivity.

Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor, said: “With too many families living in temporary accommodation or homes that are too expensive, I am pleased that this project is delivering a new community with affordable homes and 20 new homes for social rent, or council houses as we used to call them.

“These sustainable, high-quality homes are very high energy efficient which will reduce bills for residents and is good for our environment.

“As Watford Riverwell continues to evolve, the project remains committed to delivering sustainable housing, jobs for local residents, better public spaces and facilities and a connected new community. This will provide long-term benefits for residents and businesses alike.”

Leigh Thomas, Group managing director at Kier Property, commented: “Reaching this milestone is a significant achievement for all involved and represents a vital step in creating a sustainable and thriving community at Watford Riverwell. We are proud to work in partnership with Watford Borough Council to deliver high-quality homes and public spaces that will benefit residents both now and in the future.”

The Joint venture commenced on site last month with the new Safestore building on Thomas Sawyer Way.  The self-storage facility will be opening in Spring 2026 offering sustainable space for businesses and the public.  www.watfordriverwell.com