Plans for Nottingham mixed-use scheme get green light

Plans to demolish a restaurant building in the city centre and replace it with a mixed-used development led by student housing have been granted planning permission by Nottingham City Council.

The plans, submitted by Grace Machin on behalf of a private individual, show a five-storey building including retail on the ground floor and a 49-bed student accommodation scheme on floors 1-5.

The former New Ocean Restaurant is set to be demolished as part of the plans.

The scheme follows a design competition run by Nottingham City Council where a number of architectural practices from the East Midlands were invited to submit proposals for the site. Allan Joyce Architects was selected following a second stage panel review.

A design statement accompanying the planning application reads: “The project will greatly enhance this part of the city, creating a contemporary building that is at home in its historic setting on Derby road and that creates a destination for the local student population, making a contribution to the vibrancy and commercial success of the area.

“The proposed new building will function as part of a network of several other student residences being constructed at this end of central Nottingham, at an ideal position part way between the two main university campuses – the presence of both the student residences and commercial unit will enliven the area.”