Developer reveals plans for Ilkeston regeneration
A derelict pub in Ilkeston is set to be demolished to build a business centre and 19 houses.
The plans to demolish the currently unsafe building to make way for a proposed new business centre and road to a selection of homes, has been put forward by Derby-based developer Ian Hodgkinson.
Eighteen of the 19 new homes that will be built on the new road, to the rear of the business centre have already been pre-sold to Futures Housing.
“This could be the start of the Bath Street revival,” said Hodgkinson.
He added “I’ve had plans to redevelop the Poplar for a while as its been on my radar for a few years and the time is right now. There is lots of benefits of having a business centre in Ilkeston, especially with Ilkeston train station being so close.
“There is also a demand for affordable housing in the area, with more and more people looking to live in areas such as Ilkeston with an easy commute to Nottingham and Derby.”
The proposed business centre won’t be completely new, Hodgkinson plan to utilize material from the pub, such as the stonework and signage to create some original features and retain the history of the Poplar Pub, which closed during the recession.
“I’m really excited at the prospect of a new business centre opening, having been based on Bath Street for the last three years, the state of the area annoys me and it’s clear that the area needs a serious facelift,” said Tina Clough, managing director of Poppy PR.
She added: “I’d welcome any development, whether that’s housing, a business centre or a mix. It would be really interesting to raise our profile with other businesses in the area if a business centre does open.”
The road of new houses will be made up of two and three bed homes and apartments. The 19th house on the street will be a barn conversion that will be up for sale.
Hodgkinson has also bought the old butchers shop, unit 101, which will be renovated into a new shop or office.
He said: “It’s great to put something back into Ilkeston – something which has been a lifelong dream of mine.”
If planning is approved as hoped, Hodgkinson Builders hope to start work in the New Year, completing the build in mid-2020.
