Plans Submitted for Lancaster Apartments Scheme, near City’s Historic Square
Proposals to create a development of 28 apartments in Lancaster city centre have been unveiled. HPA has submitted a Planning Application for the scheme, on behalf of applicant Fuelsmart Ltd.
The five-storey building would sit within the Lancaster City Conservation Area on a site bounded by the historic Dalton Square, Brock Street, and Mary Street. A flexible design enables the development to be used as either high-quality student accommodation or as a luxury aparthotel.
It would see the façade and cinema foyer of 13 Dalton Square retained as part of development, while the dilapidated cinema auditorium to the rear would be demolished to make way for the new 1 and 2 bedroom / studio apartments.
Andrew Walters, architect at HPA, said: “This is an innovative yet sympathetic design which enables us to revitalise a neglected building while helping Dalton Square retain its historic character. The new building will also provide a visual improvement to Mary Street. As Lancaster-based architects, it’s a real privilege to be entrusted to work on this exciting project to further enhance the city centre.”
The new 15,590 square ft apartment will use stone cladding to match the appearance of other buildings in the vicinity. A flat roof, clad in zinc, will also enable the building to blend with its surroundings.
The design also features angled walls on the south elevation, allowing the scheme to take advantage of a variety of views while minimising overlooking issues. A courtyard and green wall of climbing plants will help provide privacy for neighbouring buildings.
The retail units adjacent to 13 Dalton Square and the existing apartments above it will not be altered by the new development. The building was originally constructed as a cinema, but following the cinema’s closure in 1974, it has since been variously used as a discotheque, bar, and children’s soft play centre.
Unlike its neighbours at 11 and 12 Dalton Square the building is not Listed but is designated locally as a Heritage Asset.
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