The former boxing gym has been empty for a number of years
Demolition of the former site of The Community Boxing Gym has previously been granted(Image: Google Streetview)
Plans to transform a “disused and dilapidated” former Leicester boxing gym into two tower blocks of flats have been given the green light.
The application to regenerate a vacant building on Western Road in Westcotes was presented to Leicester City Council’s Planning Committee on Wednesday March 15 after a number of neighbours submitted objections.
With permission to demolish the existing building already granted, the approved scheme will see 46 flats built across linked four-storey and six-storey blocks.
As part of the scheme, 16 parking spaces and 44 cycle spaces will be provided on the ground floor. A communal garden and solar panels are planned for the roof.
An impression of the proposals for flats on Western Road. Image by Staniforth Architects via Leicester City Council.(Image: Image by Staniforth Architects via Leicester City Council.)
Officers said the site, which previously housed The Community Boxing Gym, has stood empty for several years and said redevelopment would bring a brownfield site back into productive use.
The applicant, Mitchian Group, told members the scheme is an “integrated and sympathetic design” which will deliver “much needed housing”.
They added: “The site has since become disused and dilapidated and it is clear an appropriate and viable use must be found to avoid the site falling into further deprivation.”
A total of 18 objections were submitted during the planning process, with residents raising concerns over the height and scale of the blocks, parking pressures, traffic, and the impact on the character of the surrounding Victorian terraces.
An impression of the proposals for flats on Western Road. Image by Staniforth Architects via Leicester City Council.(Image: Image by Staniforth Architects via Leicester City Council.)
However, in recommending approval, officers concluded the development would contribute to Leicester’s housing need while replacing buildings of “little architectural merit”.
Ultimately, members of the committee went with officer recommendations and unanimously voted to approve the scheme.