Delayed decision on major gateway scheme set for vote

Plans to redevelop a car handwashing and Indian restaurant site on one of the main roads into Nottingham city centre into a major mixed-use scheme have been given the backing of planning chiefs at the city council for the second time.

ALB Group wants to build 100 apartments at 152-160 London Road, in a scheme designed by CBP Architects.

The development will include one- and two-bedroom flats with balconies, a ground floor two-storey restaurant, cafe, bar, basement car parking and a residents-only gym.

A decision on the future of the scheme was deferred by Nottingham City Council’s planning committee on May 25 and will be voted on again next Wednesday (June 23) – with planning bosses again urging councillors to pass the plans.

The committee raised concerns last month about energy and sustainability measures of the scheme, along with traffic management measures – as well as the general viability of the development.

Councillors will hear an update on the first two issues next Wednesday. Meanwhile, ALB Group has committed to take a lower profit on the scheme in order to make it viable and the planning officer’s decision to recommend granting planning permission to the scheme remains unchanged.

When the plans were revealed in December, Arran Bailey, managing director at ALB Group, said: “As one of the main routes into Nottingham, London Road is a prominent location and provides a gateway to both West Bridgford and the rest of the city. We are excited to be submitting plans for this landmark scheme, which if approved, would bring luxury homes and further amenities to the area. The new development would improve the aesthetic of a major gateway, and serve to welcome visitors as they approach and travel through the city.

“We have been working closely with Nottingham City Council, CBP Architects and the local community, to ensure the design of the building fits in seamlessly with the environment. The scheme’s contemporary look, complete with natural greenery, would also enhance the view corridor towards Nottingham Castle, which is something Nottingham City Council is keen to maintain.”

Simon Birch, director at CBP Architects, said: “It is a pleasure to be working on plans for such a prominent, residential and commercial development in an unrivalled location in Nottingham. The design of the scheme respects its location on one of the main routes into the city and if plans are approved, it will provide a striking piece of architecture to welcome visitors and commuters along the route.”