YPP has been given planning permission to build a 60-bedroom purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) scheme on New Walk in Leicester.
Brewster Bye Architects designed the conversion of 2A New Walk, a former Job Centre in Leicester, into a PBSA development. The existing four-storey building has been vacant for over two years.
All studios consist of an open plan design with private kitchen, study area, bed space, en-suite and living area. Planning Officers mentioned that the living spaces are below the nationally recommended space standards. However, as the flats are for students rather than for use as permanent residences, this is considered acceptable. However, an additional dining table and larger living space are given to the larger units.
YPP’s scheme also provides significant external and internal communal spaces located on the ground floor that will provide additional services and encourage student interaction to avoid the sense of isolation within the private studios.
The scheme will be car free as it is in a highly sustainable city centre location, and is within walking distance of Leicester’s two universities.
Limited changes are required for the outside of the building. These include replacing doors and windows, and adding new planting beds to New Walk.
“YPP understand that the impact on the cities they operate in extends well beyond the buildings they develop. Therefore providing high quality, considered design whilst creating positive relationships with local planners, universities and councils has played a crucial role in the ongoing success and sustainable expansion of the company and continued popularity of their many developments.”
Design and Access Statement, Brewster Bye Architects
In granting their permission, officers recommended a condition be attached which limits residency of YPP’s New Walk building to students only.
