Retail doubts over new Broadmarsh bus station and car park

Nottingham City Council would appear to have ruled out any retail space at new Broadmarsh bus station and car park when it is rebuilt.

Earlier this week, a refreshed planning application was submitted detailing plans to relocate Nottingham’s Central Library to the new building.

The original document submitted earlier this year included plans for several retail units within the new development.

However, a design and access statement from Leonard Design accompanying the updated application states: “Over the last six months and following extensive dialogue with Nottingham City Council in addition to further public consultations held, the question was raised over the long-term use of the scheme and its credibility given the importance of the redevelopment in its gateway location. In the process, the efficiency of the four double-height commercial units was scrutinised where it was concluded that retail may not be the best use for the space available.”

Last week, the results of a consultation by Nottingham City Council identified that 85% of people would like to see a new library located in the revamped Broadmarsh area.

The consultation, answered by over 1,500 people, was “overwhelmingly” in support of a new, bespoke Central Library as part of the redeveloped Broadmarsh Car Park and Bus Station site.