Over 20 “much-needed” new apartments could be built in Newark after plans were submitted to transform part of the Castlegate Centre.
Applicant Tim Hubbard submitted proposals to Newark and Sherwood District Council for 24 apartments on the upper floors of the building on Monday, 2 December.
To create the new flats, the application involves dividing the first, second, and attic floors of the centre – the corner building facing the Castlegate and Lombard Street junction.
Plans outline that the flats will consist of 15 studio apartments, five one-bedroom apartments, and four two-bedroom apartments across the three floors.
Due to the site’s central location, the apartments would not include on-site parking. However, the plans highlight that public transport links are nearby, stating: “It is felt the lack of parking provision can be offset in favour of these more sustainable access options.”
If approved, the development would utilise the existing building with minimal alterations to the outside character of the centre.
The works would primarily be internal, involving the creation of new ceilings and partitions to form the new residential units.
The application states: “The proposed alterations look to provide much-needed residential accommodation of a high standard and therefore will improve the communal value of the building to the local area.”
Carl Greaves, a former professional boxer and owner of NG24 Fitness and Carl Greaves Boxing Fitness, operates his businesses on the second floor of the centre, which is within the planning site.
He said his lease will expire in 2026, and he will look for new premises once the lease ends.
He added: “Obviously, it’s the landlord’s decision. They obviously feel they can make more money making it into apartments.
“We have had chats, and I understand why they’re doing it – they can make far more money doing it that way. Making apartments is the way of the world now.”
The two fitness units are understood to be the only businesses impacted by the proposed plans.
The Castlegate Leisure Centre was built in the early 2000s and houses various commercial tenants, including UK Superbowl, the Baseri restaurant, and NG24 Fitness.
In December 2022, the centre was listed on Rightmove as a freehold for £2.4 million.
The District Council will decide on the application at a later date
