Developer wins appeal over controversial PBSA scheme

A controversial mixed-use scheme that was blocked by planning bosses at the eleventh hour is set to go ahead following a successful appeal.

Cassidy Group’s plans to develop a 419-flat student block on Station Road in Beeston were thrown out in July despite being recommended for approval a week previously.  Councillors are understood to have had concerns around parking, the massing of the building and questions around its sustainability.

The eight-storey development – which also includes retail and commercial units – is now free to proceed after the developer won its appeal against Broxtowe Borough Council.

Cassidy says the development will “breathe new life” into the derelict site and bring increased footfall and economic benefits to local retailers. The building will sit opposite the Arc Cinema, The Beeston Social and Rassams Creamery in the town centre.

Liam Brennan, development manager at Cassidy Group, said: “We want to reassure the Beeston community that we are committed to creating a building which will benefit the local area a great deal – using sustainable materials and being sensitive to the town centre in terms of what is already there.

“As we have said before, our scheme will offer something fantastic for local students who are currently living in houses in multiple occupation (HMO) in Beeston and this can create problems for people trying to buy in the town.

“Our scheme will help free up homes for families to live in and encourage the use of public transport. Beeston has fantastic infrastructure, and the new development is designed to enhance that. We’re excited to see this site, which has sat derelict for so long, finally be the home of something exciting for Beeston.”

He added: “We are obviously pleased that our appeal has been heard and this overturned the council’s previous decision. The appeal recognised the benefits of our scheme to residents and the community – as well as students.”

Beeston Civic Society issued a strongly worded statement last summer which claimed the need for purpose-built student accommodation in the area had been “overstated.”

It said it was “bitterly disappointed” with the Planning Inspectorate’s decion and has called on Broxtowe MP Darren Henry and Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities Michael Gove to intervene.