Approval given for ‘iconic’ British Waterways building to be turned into flats

The British Waterways building in Nottingham (Nottingham City Council)
By Anna Whittaker, Local Democracy Reporter

An ‘iconic’ Nottingham building will be turned into flats after councillors approved plans for the canalside site.

The British Waterways Building in Castle Wharf will be transformed into 95 one and two bed apartments and studios as well as a rooftop extension providing eight apartments.

Nottingham City Council discussed the application from Richard Thomas at its planning committee on September 21.

Seven councillors voted in favour of the plans and one voted against.

The six-storey former warehouse dates back to 1919 and was originally built to help move goods along the Nottingham and Beeston Canal.

Councillor Michael Edwards, chair of the committee, (Lab) said: “This is an iconic building, a special place.

“What a place to live, there will be so much life going on there.

“That is going to be an incredibly noisy place but I am sure soundproofing will be addressed.”

Councillor Sally Longford (Lab) added: “I think insulation is the key to this because from a noise perspective, that will be vital.

“Generally I think it’s a really good way of using the building.”

The Grade 2 listed building – formerly known as the Trent Navigation Company warehouse – has most recently been in use as a pub, gym and comedy club The Glee Club, which is not renewing its lease on the site.

The plans would also include a reception area and residents lounge and 15 parking spaces.

Nottingham Civic Society did not object to the plans and said that the roof extension was “well contained and would not be obtrusive”.

There was one objection to the plans from a resident who said the conversion would “damage the listed building”.

Documents with the application stated: “The proposal to convert the listed British Waterways building into a residential apartment scheme will provide a viable repurposing of this prominent landmark to protect its long-term future.

“The proposed development will include the retention and restoration of the all the historic fabric of the building, with historical fabric and detail features appropriately restored where necessary.

“The existing roof and rooftop plant will be entirely removed to make way for the high quality rooftop extension.”