The transformation of an old school site in Nottingham into student accommodation has been given the green light for the second time after a new operator decided to increase the number of bed spaces to 176.
Radford Board School, on Ilkeston Road, was built in 1885 by George Thomas Hine.
Later known as the Radford Unity Centre, it became home to a number of community groups and Nottingham City Council staff, before the authority sold the building in 2018.
The building has been standing empty ever since.
In December 2021, a developer was given permission to convert a large section of the site into student accommodation, while a 1930s extension facing Stanfield Street was to be demolished to make way for a new five-storey wing.
Since then, a new operator has been appointed, and updated plans were submitted to increase the bed spaces from 155 to 176.
A decision report from council officers, published in October, says: “The former Radford Boulevard School building is an attractive, unlisted heritage asset and a local landmark.
“The former school was last used as the Radford Unity Centre by the City Council, but has been vacant for some years and internally is in a poor state of disrepair.
“This application seeks to vary the plans approved under [previous] permission.”
According to the applicant, Cross Country Partners and Ilkeston Ltd, a number of changes have been made to allow for the increase in the number of bed spaces.
Plans, prepared by Franklin Ellis Architects, add: “Since the original consent was granted, a new operator has reviewed the consented development proposals, which has led to a number of proposed improvements to the internal layout of the scheme to comply with the latest building regulations, to make more efficient use of the historic building envelope, including a further area of mezzanine floor to an existing double-height space, and to provide improved access for disabled people to a larger part of the existing building.
“Accommodation is proposed in the extensive existing roof spaces of the building. The lower ground and basement cluster bed spaces have been removed, along with the dedicated external light-wells.
“The extent of external areas for all residents to enjoy has been increased.
“The internal amenity space is also increased to accommodate additional quiet study areas and syndicate rooms across a variety of spaces, some of which are set away from the common room.
“The main amenity space has direct access out into the courtyard spaces and enjoys roof lights for enhanced levels of interior daylighting.”
The developer has further agreed to provide an increased financial contribution under a Section 106 agreement.
In total, £231,230 will be provided for new or improved off-site public open space, as well as £4,684 for local employment and training opportunities.
