Rickmansworth police station could be demolished and turned into a budget supermarket.

The 0.8 acre station site in Rectory Road has been displaying a Sold board outside this week and the Watford Observer can reveal it has been bought by German discount chain Lidl.

The site has been on the market for some time and, 12 months ago, was valued by the Hertfordshire Police Authority at £2.8 million, however it is not clear what price it sold for.

Police and Crime Commissioner David Lloyd said; "The sale of this site has saved us on-going maintenance costs and generated a valuable capital receipt.

"Innovative use of other public buildings - such as the partnership with Three Rivers Council - make sound business sense and help protect officers on the frontline."

The station has been vacant since February 2011 when neighbourhood officers relocated to share office space with Three Rivers District Council.

Lidl spokesman Clare Norman says, "The new store would provide the residents of Rickmansworth and surrounding areas with a quality offering of products at the lowest prices.

"This new store would also bring jobs to the local area which is positive news in the current economic climate."