The site in question was once occupied by a bank. A total of 14 students could have their housing needs addressed at this location thanks to the intervention of entrepreneur, Chris Bissell. A Print company within Stoke-on-Trent may be used to promote the flats.
Council officer Tom Coates recommended the scheme to the planning committee:
“The loss of a retail unit in the town centre is not something we would normally encourage, but looking at this case we feel - with the high level of vacancies - if we don't make this decision it is likely to remain empty.”
It is hoped that the student flats will help to bring resources into Stoke-on-Trent. The site had been vacant for at least a year and a half prior to the decision.
Local demand for student housing is higher than it used to be. This is, in part, because the Beaconside campus of Staffordshire University has closed. Work on the new project should be completed by the autumn of this year. Two more sizeable proposals have also been given planning permission recently.
Janine Bridges, a member of the planning committee, commented on how the population of Stoke is altering. She explained that the new student homes could assist in the development of local businesses. Furthermore, she stated that the local street scene might gain from the initiatives.Get a Free Quote for Print