Civic Society reacts with fury as developer appeals over controversial mixed-use scheme

Warwickshire-based developer Cassidy Group has launched an appeal over Broxtowe Borough Council’s decision to block a controversial mixed-use scheme it had sought to bring forward in Beeston, TheBusinessDesk.com understands.

The firm’s plans to create a 419-flat student block and a number of retail/commercial units on Station Road in the Nottinghamshire town were thrown out in July despite being recommended for approval just a week previously. 

Cassidy said the development would “breathe new life” into the derelict site and bring increased footfall and economic benefits to local retailers.

The developer had argued that the seven-storey scheme would free up much-needed housing in the town, currently occupied by students, for family homes.

A planning report published a week prior to the council’s decision noted that the building would be the tallest structure in Beeston, but that the committee considered the site to be “capable of accommodating a building of the height proposed without detriment to the character of the area or neighbour amenity.”

A week later the council changed their minds, leaving Cassidy Group “naturally disappointed.”

Beeston Civic Society has reacted angrily to the news. In a blistering statement, the organisation said Cassidy “seem[s] to believe that it is acceptable to ride rough-shod over the aspirations of the people of Beeston and their elected council.”

The Society believes the need for purpose built student accommodation in the area has been “overstated.”

Residents who wish to object to the appeal must do so by 15 February.