Civic society concerned by student flats plan

The plans would create about 330 new student beds if approved

A heritage group has expressed "grave concerns" over plans to build a 330-bed student block overlooking the redeveloped Broad Marsh area in Nottingham.

Developers Peveril Securities and Sladen Estates want to regenerate the space opposite the Broad Marsh Green Heart park, library and bus station.

However Nottingham Civic Society warned the proposed flats would "cast a giant shadow" over the park and require the demolition of two historic buildings.

Nottingham City Council, the planning authority, said the proposal was currently in the early stages of pre-application discussion.

A public consultation on the plans for the area around Hanson House was held on 16 October, with documents due to be submitted to the council at a later date.

The civic society said it was unhappy the plans would involve the demolition of Hanson House and Big City Tyres.

Hanson House is located on the corner opposite the main entrance to the Central Library

Chairman Graham Woodward, said: "These new blocks of student flats will loom over the south side of the Green Heart and will cast a giant shadow over this wonderful and already much-admired open space.

"Should these historic buildings have to be replaced then it must be with something of very high quality that reflects Nottingham's unique character, sets an appropriate standard for others to follow and delivers a delightful backdrop to the Green Heart.

"Unfortunately, the current proposal fails to deliver on any of these."

Mr Woodward said his preference would be for the developers to use and refurbish Hanson House.

Sladen Estates, one of the developers in the joint venture, declined to comment on the civic society's response to its plan.

Rachel Wood, managing director at Sladen Estates, previously said the proposals would help to "kickstart regeneration across the wider Broad Marsh area" and offered "quality living spaces".

Peveril Securities was contacted for a comment.

A spokesperson for the city council said: "It is positive to see that the developer is seeking the views of the public and partners in Nottingham.

"This project is currently in the early stages of pre-application discussion and the city council will consider the planning application if submitted."