A housing developer has been given the green light to build a "spectacular" new headquarters and 20 homes.

The planning committee at Hertsmere Borough Council have approved an application by Griggs Homes to redevelop Organ Hall Farm on the edge of Borehamwood.

The Radlett-based housebuilder will build 13 three-bed houses and seven flats in Theobald Street.

Seven of the homes will be affordable, including two flats for affordable rent, four flats for shared ownership, and a three bed home at affordable rent.

Griggs will also construct a new office which will be their headquarters. It is likely to be used as a shared space for other small companies as well.

Borehamwood Times:

There will be 13 houses built and seven flats. Credit: Griggs Homes

Borehamwood Times:

The new Griggs headquarters. Credit: Griggs Homes

At last Thursday's meeting, the majority of councillors were in favour of the scheme.

Councillors Seamus Quilty, Ruth Lyon, and John Graham praised the design of the development, with Cllr Quilty saying the scheme "blends in well with the area".

Cllr Graham described the current site as an "eyesore" and said the proposal "tidies up" the site.

However, Councillor Jeremy Newmark had concerns about the type of affordable housing being offered while Councillor Glenn Briski had concerns over development on green belt land.

The council's planning officer recognised this would be inappropriate development because it is green belt but pointed out some of the site had previously been developed and said the applicant agreed to an affordable housing contribution which met the council's policy.

Both Cllr Newmark and Cllr Briski voted against the scheme alongside Cllr Brett Rosehill and Cllr Jerry Evans.

Borehamwood Times:

Credit: Griggs Homes

Borehamwood Times:

What the new office could look like inside. Credit: Griggs Homes

Griggs Homes were "delighted" by the approval by seven votes to four, which sees the company move back to Theobald Street 52 years after founder John E.Griggs established the business in the street.

The company wrote on Twitter: "We are delighted to have been granted planning permission at last night’s virtual planning committee for our site at Organ Hall Farm in Borehamwood.

"The development will comprise of 20 residential units as well as the new Griggs headquarters.

"We would like to thank all of our staff and professional team for their assistance in achieving approval for this spectacular development.

"We look forward to commencing works soon."

Borehamwood Times:

The Griggs Homes development in Theobald Street with Borehamwood in the background. Credit: Griggs Homes