New images of the proposals for ‘2 Bunny Lane’ in Keyworth have been revealed ahead of a public consultation on the plans to redevelop the derelict site.
Nottingham-based Bellco Developments is looking to transform the site into apartments, retail and office space to help create opportunities for businesses and address the village’s shortage of single-living accommodation.
The derelict site – which used to house a restaurant and the former British Legion building – sits on the corner Bunny Lane and Nottingham Road adjacent to The Square, which is home to many of the village’s main shops and businesses.
The developer is now holding an online consultation, which will open for three weeks from Monday, 8 November ahead of submitting the plans to Rushcliffe Borough Council.
Steve Bell, chairman of Bellco Developments, said: “2 Bunny Lane is a huge opportunity for the village, which will bring a high-profile, central site back to life.
“Nearby areas such as West Bridgford, Cotgrave and Ruddington have all seen the benefits of introducing different housing types and businesses into their local mix, and this site creates an ideal opportunity for Keyworth to reap the rewards of regeneration.
“Importantly, this will be a proudly local development. As a Keyworth resident myself, we are keen to provide employment opportunities for the community, and we use an established design team with strong roots in the local area.”
Having previously worked on the Rebbur House development in the village, Bell believes that this latest scheme is exactly what Keyworth needs to ensure it is continuing to best serve its local community.
He said: “Keyworth has struggled for a while now when it comes to catering for all facets of the housing market. While two bedroom detached starter homes are well placed to cater for couples, for example, they often remain out of reach for those looking to live independently for the first time. Likewise, many of the original bungalows in the village have now been extensively remodelled and extended, often into the roof.
“The accommodation element of 2 Bunny Lane will be suitable for single residents, including those with mobility issues that have not already been provided for by any of the other developments in the village.
“In addition, the neighbourhood plan identifies a shortage of facilities for small independent retailers. This scheme will deliver new opportunities in a contemporary setting which supports the brand environment of modern businesses, as well as offering local firms the chance to take office space which are small enough to be used by local start-ups.”
Designed by locally based architect Welham Architects, 2 Bunny Lane is set to be one of the most sustainable developments in the village, incorporating electrical charging points for a parking spaces which have been designed with extra space to accommodate those with additional mobility needs.
Clive Welham added: “As a Keyworth based practice, Welham Architects were delighted when Steve told us he had secured the derelict site on Bunny Lane and asked us to design carbon neutral homes with provision for a wide range of occupants, especially those with reduced mobility.
“We see this as an exciting opportunity to create a new focal point for village life and this is reflected in the contemporary designs which are built around the new courtyard.
“Our most recently completed project with Bellco Developments in Keyworth won the prestigious LABC East Midlands Region Excellence Award 2021 for the Best Small New Housing Development and we look forward to working again as part of the team at Bunny Lane.”
The online public consultation will run until Monday, 28 November, and can be found here: www.bunnylane.co.uk
