Designs revealed for former department store scheme

The developer behind the plans to restore and convert the former Fenwick building in Leicester city centre says its new mixed-use scheme will be ready for tenants by early 2020.

Project partners, developer, Aimrok Holdings Ltd and architects, rg+p applied have received planning permission to transform the former Fenwick building into 111 short stay serviced apartments together with a rooftop bar. On the basement and ground floor will be a bar, gym, conference rooms, start-up office space and commercial units.

Inside one of the new flats

Andrew Crainey, managing director, Aimrok Holdings, said: “Our intention has always been to revitalise and restore this building so it remains a significant destination for Leicester. Working closely alongside rg+p, we’ve created a viable and sustainable design which we believe will stand out in the modern marketplace. We’re extremely pleased with the successful outcome of this planning application and now look forward to commencing work transforming this much-loved local landmark.”

Reception

The apartments are made up of a mix of studio, one and two bedroom designs with facilities such as exercise room, ground floor bar, reception and laundry. A two-storey extension to the rear of the building will provide five duplex apartments.

The rooftop bar is formed from a single storey extension and will be available to tenants of the apartments as well as the general public. Plans include space for a roof terrace and semi-enclosed courtyard.

Ground floor reception and bar

James Badley, director at rg+p, said: “This scheme is designed to honour the building’s history by emphasising some of its period features while simultaneously creating high quality residential and commercial space. We’ve worked closely alongside our heritage consultants and the planning team at Leicester City Council to ensure a seamless blend of old and new. Materials such as copper panelling, stainless steel and powder coated window frames have been incorporated to achieve this.

“Working on this project represents a fantastic opportunity to continue our investment in our home city and we’re pleased to be part of the team transforming this iconic building for the future.”

Crainey added: “This building is of extreme local significance and we’re committed to seeing it sensitively restored into a vibrant place to live and work. Now we have secured a positive planning outcome, work will commence on the first phase, the ground floor and basement, as soon as strip out is complete. We envisage the first units being ready for occupation in approximately 12 months’ time.”