Hertfordshire County Council (HCC) has named City & Country as the preferred bidder to redevelop the Grade II* and Grade II listed county hall and the adjacent Leahoe House site in Hertford.
If approved, the developer intends to pursue a residential-led scheme for both sites, exploring alternative uses for the main listed building which includes the council chambers and a number of formal rooms.
The main county hall, which was the council’s headquarters for 86 years, comprises the Grade II* listed structure, the Grade II register office and mid-20th-century extensions and ancillary buildings.
Simon Marner, land and property director for City & Country, said: “We are extremely pleased to be announced as the preferred bidders for HCC’s county hall. It is a fantastic building with an interesting history and offers an exciting opportunity for us to deliver a sensitive solution for the site that will bring it back to life, and secure the future of the historic buildings.
“City & Country has successfully worked on several developments with significant heritage buildings at their heart, similar to the county hall site. Our focus and expertise is on improving and preserving the heritage buildings and their setting and securing their long-term future. The experience and skill of our in-house team supported by a carefully selected professional team, makes us well-equipped to redevelop this historic site.”
Chris Lucas, executive member for resources and performance at Hertfordshire County Council, added: “When we made the difficult decision to sell County Hall, we were keen that potential bidders had the experience and expertise to develop the site in a way that respects and celebrates the historical aspects of the building. We are pleased that City & Country’s proposals, as well as their track record with similar sites, demonstrate the appropriate reverence for the historic and cultural significance of county hall while also protecting the outdoor spaces for the local community.
“We are hopeful that once the sale is approved, ownership of the site will transfer this financial year, allowing us to more quickly make significant savings on running costs which can be reinvested into our vital services alongside the capital receipts from the sale itself.”
