A developer says plans for block of flats for 263 students would “improve the quality of the urban environment” in Bradford’s city centre, despite fears it could harm the skyline.
Plans have been submitted by Castlebrook Properties for a building for apartments spread out over 16 floors on the site of an empty Castaways nightclub behind the Odeon on Great Horton Road – which would contain student flats and three ground floor shops and cafes.
But the building’s location, behind the Odeon building and Alambra Theatre, has raised concerns.
The Bradford Odeon Rescue Group, dedicated to saving the former Odeon building, has described plans to build a high rise block of flats behind the building as a “considerable concern.”
It feard that the building would dominate the skyline, and harm any future views of a redeveloped Odeon.
Last week Bradford Council, new owners of the Odeon building, asked developers to come forward with ideas for its re-development.
The planning application for the flats points out that the building would be on a “sensitive part of the city centre” but adds: “It is recognised that this site is in close proximity to landmark city centre buildings and proposals require rigorous justification and assessment.
“We believe our proposals will have a positive impact on the site and surrounding area, and will improve the quality of the urban environment in the city centre.
“With the high demand for quality student accommodation in this city this is an ideal location for this provision. The provision of a new building in an area that has seen little investment in recent years could act as a catalyst for further regeneration and economic development.”
It says the tallest part of the development would create a “landmark tower.”
The building would contain five bedsits, two three bedroom flats and 53 four bedroom cluster flats.
BORG has responded to the proposals by saying: “The skyline of the Odeon domes, along with the similar features of the Alhambra, form the most impressive backdrop to City Park.
“While BORG welcomes the ongoing rejuvenation of the West End area and recognises that its future vibrancy would be of further benefit to the Odeon, the proposed height of the student accommodation is of considerable detriment to the Odeon/Alhambra skyline.
“The visual impact of the domes, which is protected by the City Centre Conservation Area guidelines, would be affected by the metal and glass tower of the Riverside Design Studio proposal.”
The development would also lead to the conversion of a grade II listed warehouse on neighbouring Quebec Street into a student cafe.
Bradford Concil will decide on the plans in early 2014.