By Anna Whittaker, Local Democracy Reporter
A decision has been delayed on controversial plans to convert an empty college building in Chilwell into student accommodation after councillors heard concerns it could change the area’s character.
Developers want to convert the former Nottingham College campus into housing for 162 students.
An application was submitted to Broxtowe Borough Council in a bid to turn the site on High Road, Chilwell, into student accommodation.
A decision was deferred in a narrow majority from councillors after concerns were raised over noise and parking during the meeting on July 7.
Resident Patricia Greaves said she spoke on behalf of over 80 residents who have “serious concerns” about the application.
She said: “We understand a new use needs to be found for the site but the proposals subject to this application is not the right one.
“There have been a large number of objections to this application. Large student accommodation like this should be located towards the city centre, not in a residential suburb.
“Only last week, police in Nottingham have had to add additional policing to try and curb the ongoing partying of students in Lenton.
“People are living longer and there is a massive shortage of affordable care and nursing homes. This kind of usage for the former college would be a much better fit for the area and would benefit all of Beeston and not just the students.”
Another objector and local resident told the planning committee: “My concern is traffic and parking.
“Beeston has learnt to its cost that students do have cars and it causes problems everywhere.
“I am pleased to see that the applicants state that there will be a policy of no student car ownership, but I do think this should be made a planning condition.
“We want to welcome the students, not forever objecting to cars being parked where they shouldn’t be.”
Councillor Philip Owen said: “To suggest that the developer is going to be able to enforce a no cars policy is nonsense.
“I shall vote against this because I am not happy with the concept of student development on that site.
“It is a largely residential area and it is no good pretending that students have not been disruptive in significant parts of this area.
“We hear weekly of parties, the Lenton Abbey Residents Association are in absolute despair as to the behaviour of students in that area.
“This is not fair, it is unreasonable.”
The leader of Broxtowe Borough Council Milan Radulovic said: “It’s a shame it [the building] is derelict and empty, it is very untidy and it is an eyesore.
“15 car parking spaces is totally inadequate.
“I have no objection to the principle of development on this site, I just think this could’ve been a good development, and instead what we have got is a half good development.”
The plans will be discussed again in the September or October planning committee meeting.
A spokesperson for ALB Group, who are behind the plans, said: “ALB are disappointed the planning application for the conversion of Central College into student accommodation was deferred at last night’s planning committee meeting, however all efforts will be made to work closely with the Council to overcome and resolve any concerns raised over parking and construction working hours.
“The development has major benefits for the local community and we look forward to delivering this exciting project once planning has been secured.”
