Investment News | 18 August 2021
Go-ahead for £14m student apartments scheme
A £14 million plan to turn a former tax office building in Derby into student apartments has been given the go-ahead.
Staton Young has been granted planning permission by Derby City Council to convert Northgate House, in Agard Street, into 166 apartments.
The building, which was formerly home to HM Revenue and Customs, was snapped up by the property group towards the end of last year.
According to the firm, the multi-million pound transformation of the building will take a year to complete, with work starting immediately.
Marc Brough, managing director at Staton Young, said: “We are delighted that planning has been approved.
“We have been keen to move into the student accommodation sector for some time – and this reemphasises our deep commitment to Derby.”
Northgate House had been occupied by HMRC for more than 30 years as its principal tax office in Derby. However, since it moved out, the building has stood vacant.
Now, with planning approval secured, Staton Young aims to bring the building back into full use in time for the academic year beginning in September 2022.
The scheme comprises a mixture of clusters, studios, and double studios.
The aim is to provide safe, modern and community-driven accommodation for those wanting to immerse themselves in the student lifestyle that the city provides.
The building is close to existing University of Derby sites, including the School of Law and Social Sciences at One Friar Gate Square, on the corner of Agard Street and Ford Street.
As well as accommodation, the revamped Northgate House will feature a laundrette, gym facilities, large cinema and 24/7 security.
There will also be an open plan communal space on the ground floor, allowing students to socialise in a safe and monitored environment.
As well as Staton Young, a number of local companies are involved in the project, including Rigby & Co, Maber, Armsons, Strata Real Estate Consulting and Smith Partnership.
