Developer submits plans to create huge student scheme on former Guildhall site

Vita Group has submitted plans to create a huge mixed-use scheme on the site of Nottingham’s Grade II listed Guildhall.

The developer intends to transform the former fire and police stations at the site into a PBSA-led block comprising of 967 student beds, a gym, a dance studio, co-study spaces, a cinema and a games room.

The plans also outline provisions for a public facing Market Food Hall with capacity for around 500 diners.

Vita says the development has been designed to sit “sensitively” on Shakespeare Street, North Church Street and South Sherwood Street and will complement the existing plans already approved for a hotel on the site.

The new block, which builds upon the firm’s successful operation on Station Street in the city, will introduce a new student accommodation concept called House of Social.

House of Social apartments are designed to keep second- and third-year students in the city, relieving the pressures of demand on local housing stock.

The Guildhall was built in 1887 and was once home to Nottingham’s Magistrates’ Court.

Mark Oakes, chief commercial officer at Vita Group, said: “A vastly underutilised redevelopment opportunity, Guildhall has the potential to be one of Nottingham’s major landmarks once again, bringing significant investment to the city and a historically important building back to life.

“The plans aim to create best-in-class student accommodation with outstanding amenities, whilst also easing pressures on local housing stock. The Market Food Hall will create a go-to destination for all the city to enjoy, providing the perfect backdrop for exciting new independent restauranteurs to bring their new ventures to people across the region.”