CityBlock plans more student accommodation
LANCASTER-based student accommodation specialist CityBlock is planning to build a 96-bed student apartment in the city.
Planning officers have recommended the scheme is approved when councillors meet on January 10.
CityBlock, which also has student accommodation in Leicester, was founded by Lancaster businessmen Martin Higginson – chief executive of quoted gaming group Netplay – and Trevor Bargh. Mr Higginson is no longer involved with the business but Mr Bargh is its chief executive.
The company wants to demolish an existing building in Penny Street but retain the facade. The five-storey building will have retail space on the ground floor with student flats above.
The building was originally built as a car garage in the 1930s and more recently was converted into offices but these have been empty in recent years.
In a report prepared ahead of next week’s meeting planning officers described the proposal as, “innovative, though unusual”. They added: “Whilst the proposal has drawn out different opinions, the scheme has received an approval in principle from key consultees, including English Heritage, Places Matter design panel and the council’s senior conservation officer.
“Therefore, subject to securing the appropriate detailing, which can be agreed by way of conditions, the proposal is deemed acceptable and receives a positive recommendation from officers.”
