In addition to the stalled housing developments, Homes England has recently announced that it will be building a new 330-bed student accommodation facility on Broad Marsh site in Nottingham. This Smart Neighborhood Demonstration Project is set to develop a new Smart Neighborhood of more than 1,000 homes throughout the region. It aims to bring life back to an area that’s been largely deserted since the old Broadmarsh shopping centre went bust in 2020.
The Broad Marsh site has a complicated and often tragic history. The mall had been a successful retail destination. After Intu went into administration in 2020, it further deteriorated and the city council had it repossessed. Since then, the site has remained mostly underutilized and abandoned, leading local leaders and stakeholders to search for other viable development options.
Rachel Wood, the Sladen’s managing director, told the Post that this year-long project is badly needed. Her team is directly engaged with the development proposals for Broad Marsh.
“The existing building is in poor structural condition and these proposals represent a chance to deliver a development that contributes positively to Nottingham’s future by helping to kickstart regeneration across the wider Broad Marsh area.” – Rachel Wood
The new student housing is meant to satisfy increasing demand for student housing and support community development at the same time. The plans envision high-quality living environments, focused study environments, and participatory social environments specifically designed to foster student engagement with the community and personal success. Wood highlighted the ambition behind these plans.
“Our ambition is to deliver a well-designed, well-connected scheme that goes above and beyond to provide everything a modern-day student needs – combining high-quality living spaces with dedicated study areas and social amenities that support wellbeing and community life.” – Rachel Wood
These conversations about the future of the Broad Marsh site have largely focused on a series of development proposals from recent years. Complementing this new residential development, planning negotiations are already underway on adding a fourth tram stop. This last stop would greatly improve access to the site and further increase economic activity throughout the area.
The development of student flats at Broad Marsh not only seeks to meet housing needs but aims to revitalize the area and contribute positively to Nottingham’s urban landscape. As stakeholders continue to move forward with their plans, community engagement remains their focus. Enviros as well as business groups hope to spur economic development with such greener endeavors.
