People are being told to stay at home or find other ways of getting to work as world leaders congregate on the outskirts of Watford.

Heads of state will gather at a North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) meeting at the Grove Hotel, Chandler's Cross on December 4.

US President Donald Trump is expected to be among the leaders. German Chancellor Angela Merkel, French President Emmanuel Macron will also be there.

Hertfordshire Constabulary is warning people ahead of the disruption, asking them to consider alternative transport arrangements or working from home.

Several roads and footpaths will be closed around the time of the summit:

  • Grove Mill Lane will be closed from 6am on Monday, December 2 to 8pm on December 4.
  • Fir Tree Hill and Langleybury Lane will be closed from 6am on Tuesday, December 3 to 8pm on Wednesday, December 4.
  • Hempstead Road - from Hunton Bridge roundabout to Courtlands Drive junction - will be closed from 11pm on Tuesday, December 3 to midnight on Wednesday, December 4.
  • The Grand Union Canal and its towpath - from Lady Capels Wharf to Cassiobury Park - will be closed to boats and pedestrians from 7pm on Monday, December 2 to 9am on Thursday, December 5
  • All rights of way across the hotel site will be closed between 4pm on Tuesday, December 3 and 8pm on Wednesday, December 4.

The flying and use of drone equipment will not be allowed.

Watford Chief Inspector Matt Phillips said: “Whilst it is inevitable that such a high profile event will cause some disruption, we aim to ensure that any impact on the local residents and businesses is kept to an absolute minimum and are working closely with our partners to achieve this.

“We are now in a position to share information ahead of the event in order to allow the community the time to plan accordingly and mitigate the impact it may have on their day to day lives.

“Increased traffic congestion is anticipated therefore residents and visitors are asked to consider their plans, such as finding alternative means of transport or working from home."

Watford Observer:

A part of the Grand Union Canal will be closed to boats and pedestrians. Photo: Holly Cant

Peter Taylor, directly elected Mayor of Watford, said: “The eyes of the world will be on Watford on 4 December and I am confident the town will rise to the occasion. I appreciate that there is going to be disruption, which can only be expected when you are playing host to so many of the world’s leaders but I have confidence that the police will balance the need for effective security with keeping Watford and our residents on the move.”

Police will be holding a drop-in event at Tanners Wood Hall in School Mead, Abbots Langley between 7.30pm and 9pm on Thursday, November 21. Residents can speak to officers about how the plans may affect them.

You can also email NATO_communityqueries@herts.pnn.police.uk

More information on the police's website here.