Some objectors believed the scheme for the derelict site was ‘disappointing’
Plans have been approved for the building in Grand Central Street, next to Lane7, to become a cinema and microbrewery.(Image: LeicestershireLive)
Leicester’s regeneration is stepping up after cinema and microbrewery plans for a derelict site were approved – but concerns about the scheme’s “horrid” appearance were raised by some.
Davenport Developments (Leicester) has been given the green light by Leicester City Council for the development in 56-66 Great Central Street, next to Lane7.
Demolition had already started on the buildings which are beside the historic Great Central Railway Station.
The nine units were previously used for car repair services, with the restored station dating back to 1898 and now home to Lane7, a bowling, gaming and sports bar.
Freshly-approved plans will see six commercial units built which may also bring shops, cafes, restaurants, gyms or offices to the site alongside the cinema and microbrewery.
Case officer Tom Ipgrave signed off the plans earlier this month, but they faced some criticism over their design which will be inspired by the area’s Victorian railway heritage.
Demolition works on the row of buildings had already commenced.(Image: LeicestershireLive)
Developers say it will retain its existing steel structure which will reduce the amount of construction work required, but objectors said it looked “horrible” and “disgusting”, while the scheme for the area itself was labelled “disappointing” by some residents.
Others said the cinema and microbrewery was a missed opportunity for the derelict site and “lacks ambition” too.
However, Davenport Developments said the location of the scheme supports the city’s Waterside regeneration plans, while in his report, Mr Ipgrave noted that the new use would support employment opportunities as well as community and leisure development.
He added that the plan will “contribute positively to the character and appearance” of the area.
Once operational, the microbrewery and cinema are set to run between 9am and 1.30am Mondays to Thursdays, 9am till 2am on Fridays and Saturdays, and 9am till 11pm on Sundays.
Mr Ipgrave added in his decision there is to be no live or amplified music outside of the building, and no food preparation or cooking is allowed to take place outside.