Plans revealed to turn long-vacant site into student scheme

Plans to turn a former industrial premises in Derby city centre, that has been vacant for 20 years, into 62 student flats have been revealed.

Universal Real Estate is behind the scheme to demolish the existing buildings at 10-14 St Helens Street and replace them with the new development, which is being designed by JSA Architects.

In a planning statement, the firm says: “The site is on the edge of Derby city centre and its numerous social amenities and facilities which will cater for the social needs of future occupiers. In addition, the proposed cafe provides a new amenity for nearby residents.

“The proposal provides an additional type of residential development which will add to the mixed use of the area, supporting a more diverse and inclusive community.

“Replacement of the existing derelict buildings and use of the site will improve natural surveillance in the area and is likely to reduce vandalism and anti-social behaviour in the area.

This proposal seeks to provide a viable use for an under-utilised site which has been vacant and derelict for over 20 years. It seeks to provide a use that supports the further and higher education offer of the city and in doing so, it enables the release of existing accommodation for family/market housing.”