A former Plymouth nightclub is set to be turned into purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA). Plans are being recommended for approval for the change of use, conversion and extension of the existing building at the former Mousetrap venue.
The building is a mid-19th century, double-fronted commercial unit located on a corner plot where Bedford Terrace meets North Hill. The former Mousetrap bar on the site closed down in 2017 and the property has been vacant since 2019.
The site is a short walk from the vast choice of services, amenities and public transport options available in the city centre and is also within walking distance of The Hoe and Barbican. It is situated directly opposite the University of Plymouth main campus – under 30 metres from the boundary.
“Officers acknowledge that the proposal would add to an existing high concentration of student accommodation in this area. However, whilst there is some conflict with policies, there are mitigating factors and the proposal complies with all other aspects of the Local Plan and have concluded that the proposal would contribute to the City’s housing supply through the provision of a 16-bed purpose-built student accommodation.”
Planning report
Planning permission was recently granted to change the use of the bar and premises to office space. However, new plans from RH Town Planning on behalf of Bedford Properties propose the conversion of the ground floor and basement into a two-storey extension to provide PBSA at the site.
First and second floors would consist of six studio apartments. In total, there would be 16 studio apartments, all featuring a kitchen and en suite bathroom facilities.
The Ground Floor would have an entrance/reception, void over seating area below, cycle store, four studio apartments and a courtyard.
The basement would consist of communal areas including a cinema room, games room, seating area/lounge, food prep area/dining area, laundry room and plant room.
“The proposal seeks to provide 16 student bedspaces which is not considered a significant increase in numbers, particularly when taking into consideration the North Hill location. Officers appreciate the number of student bed spaces is higher in this location compared to other areas of the City, but note that this is not uncommon in areas adjacent to Universities The proposed design is considered to be of a high quality and addresses its corner location on this key road. Overall, it is considered that sufficient evidence and justification has been provided to show that the development would meet the identified needs of students, in particular those beyond their first year.”
Planners report
There has been an increase in students at the University of Plymouth choosing to live in PBSA (43% increase in 2021/22 compared with
2020/21), likely due to the advantages that this type of accommodation offers, including security, social interactions and on-site management.
The planning application outlined how the new PBSA development would enhance the level of student accommodation in the city.
“The proposals will enhance the quality and calibre of student accommodation in the city and provide additional choice in order to meet the high level of demand for this type of accommodation.
“The proposals will provide accommodation for a wide range of prospective students including ground floor accommodation for students with disabilities. The proposals will make effective use of previously developed land within an existing urban area.
“The proposals would benefit from a choice of and access to a range of transport methods including sustainable options and are within close proximity to amenities such as shops, open space and recreational areas. The proposals will also deliver social and economic benefit through the creation of jobs during the construction phase.”
Planning application statement
