City & Country has been named as the preferred bidder to redevelop Hertfordshire County Council’s Grade II* listed County Hall and adjacent Leahoe House site.
If approved, City & Country hopes 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.
Following an informal tender process involving multiple bids, City & Country has been recommended as the preferred bidder at a meeting of the council’s Resources and Performance Cabinet Panel. The developer has a track record of successfully delivering schemes of a similar stature and importance. The proposal is due to go to the council’s Cabinet on Wednesday, 17 June for approval.
The main County Hall is constructed in the Neo-Georgian style with Scandinavian elements, located on Pegs Lane, Hertford, and was the council’s headquarters for 86 years. The site 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, commented: “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.”
Cllr Chris Lucas, executive member for resources and performance at Hertfordshire County Council, said: “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.”
Pegs Lane is located just south of Hertford town centre with local amenities located nearby, including supermarkets, restaurants and bars. Nearby Hertford North and Hertford East stations offer strong connections directly into London.
