The scheme is the first phase to be awarded planning in Watford Borough Council’s Watford Junction regeneration masterplan.

Construction is scheduled to start by the end of this year on the 4,338 sq m site.

Work will involve construction of four buildings ranging from three to 11 storeys containing 146 apartments and 330 sq m of commercial space.

In addition, the Grade-II listed Old Station House, formerly the royal waiting room for rail travel for Queen Adelaide, Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, will be converted into an artisan tap room bringing the last remaining brewery, Pope’s Yard, back to Watford.

Ben Spencer, Director at GS8, said: “We are delighted to be delivering the first phase of the much-anticipated Watford Junction Masterplan – and our first of two major regeneration schemes in the town.

“Over the past two years we have acquired a number of sites to enable this scheme to come forward, undergoing a significant design process with the council and residents to ensure that we deliver a scheme in line with the aspirations and hopes of the local community.

“The supply and demand fundamentals which persist in Watford clearly demonstrate the need for new affordable housing, which is why 25% of our development will be available for affordable and social rent with a small element of shared ownership.

“Alongside our diversified residential offer, we are looking forward to regenerating this currently underutilised site by supporting the local community and providing a range of new facilities.”

GS8 intends to start on site by the end of 2018, with phase one expected to complete towards the end of 2020.