Multi-million pound student scheme approved for listed building
A MULTI-million pound student accommodation scheme for Lancaster’s iconic Gillows building has been approved.
The Gillows development will comprise 32 studio rooms and a further 66 bedrooms spread across 10 cluster flats.
Specialist consultancy HOW Planning secured detailed approval on behalf of CityBlock, the provider of high quality, ensuite student homes.
CityBlock has worked with ssharc Architects for the redevelopment of the Grade II-listed building, which is currently substantially empty.
Richard Barton, Partner at HOW Planning said: “CityBlock has already delivered some of Lancaster’s most exclusive student accommodation and plans for its latest scheme demonstrates its continuing commitment to investment. Planning approval enables our client to start the transformation of the Gillows into a new student community for the city.”
CityBlock was established by Lancaster entrepreneur Trevor Bargh in 2003, who has since delivered a number of high quality developments for students in both Lancaster and in other UK cities.
HOW worked closely with CityBlock during the preparation of the plans to ensure all considerations were taken into account for the transformation of the Grade II listed building.
According to CityBlock, the design, due for completion in August 2018 ‘raises the bar’ in both quality and sustainability and will complement the City of Lancaster and the rest of the CityBlock portfolio.
