PLANS to transform an area of scrubland into premium student accommodation have been revealed by Leonard Design Architects following the announcement of successful planning permission. The development, located on the canal edge at Castle Wharf, has been designed by international architecture practice Leonard Design. The Nottingham headquartered firm was appointed to create three stunning student residences following significant investment from a London-based developer.
The scheme is set to be completely car free, making use of the already established network of public transport links and the city’s super-cycle highway which link the universities and the QMC Hospital with the city centre and train station. The plans also offer neighbouring residents direct access to the waterfront for the first time.
John Morgan, director at Leonard Design, said: “We are delighted to have secured planning consent for the development. It is a fantastic location for students and will rejuvenate a previously derelict patch of land and help to frame the street and improve this gateway into the city.
“The scheme, which draws inspiration from the old canal buildings along the canal network, has been sensitively designed to work as a series of blocks with spaces in-between to enhance the public realm and allows access to the canal side and super-cycle highway.
“The three different buildings within the scheme have also been designed so views across the canal are maintained. We worked very closely with the Local Planning Authority to develop a design which was sensitive and appropriate for the site”
“Having previously been a resident of Park Rock, I’m particularly passionate about this development and making it a great place to live for both those already based here and those that could move here. Our goal is to create a real sense of community.”
Andrew Astin, associate director at Indigo Planning, one of the UK’s largest independent planning consultancies, said: “The site is really interesting as it is a prime location on the canal edge with great surrounding amenities but has been left as scrubland for many years.
“Leonard Design has delivered a great vision for the scheme, completely reimagining the site whilst drawing inspiration from the surrounding area to make sure the entire area benefits. They took the time to think about not only what the site needs but what the student residents would want, such as access to the super-cycle highway, and this is what makes the scheme so great.”
Ben Tebbutt, director at Nottingham-based Box Property Consultants, said: “This is a very exciting project to be involved in and we are really looking forward to advising the client on their options moving forward now that planning has been confirmed. If any potential parties who require further information then please get in touch.”
For further information visit www.leonarddesignarchitects.com or follow @leonard_design on Twitter.
