By Joe Locker, Local Democracy Reporter
The developer of a new 10-storey student block and café has shown how they hope to transform a dingy side-street with planters, better lighting and new paving to make it safer.
A two-storey building fronting Lower Parliament Street, most recently home to Argos, is being refurbished as part of plans for 273 student rooms on the site, between Clare Street and Newcastle Street.
What was formerly warehouse space for the Argos branch has already been demolished by developer BMOR Limited to make way for a new 10-storey block, after its £34m scheme was approved in October 2021.
Clare Street is currently gated off while demolition work takes place.
The developer has since submitted additional documents which show how its scheme will make the side-street more welcoming and safer.
The entirety of Clare Street will be paved with modern granite stones in a silver colour, while several planters will be placed along the street featuring tulip trees.
Shrubs will be planted and include Summer Pastels and Giant Alliums.
New lighting will be installed, including lower, street level stainless steel bollard lights to make sure the area is well-lit.
A number of cycle stands will also be installed.
Similarly Newcastle Street will be repaved in a similar style, according to documents submitted to Nottingham City Council in the week ending July 30.
James O’Brien, who was the head of planning at BMOR at the time plans were submitted and approved, said: “The plans create an appealing new setting for residents and the public alike thanks to the courtyard and café space and will subsequently breathe new life into this underutilised site.”
The Argos building is considered a heritage asset and was built in around 1901.
According to architects Franklin Ellis, the appearance, material, and detail of the scheme has been informed by the existing building on the site.
Franklin Ellis Architects says: “The building will feature 273 student bed spaces in a mixture of clusters and studios, plus amenity space and ancillary accommodation.
“The new building seeks to provide a well-integrated scheme, enhancing the heritage building but also the wider context of the adjacent Lace Market Conservation Area, making it a safer place for students, residents and the public.”
The scheme will be known as ‘Lombard House’ once open.
