Plans to convert a former commercial building off Queen Street in Ilkeston into housing are progressing – but not without concerns from residents and planners.
The application relates to the Old Print Works site, located to the rear of Queen Street within a shared courtyard between Queen Street and South Street.
🏠What’s being planned?
The proposal would see the vacant building brought back into use as four residential units, made up of:
- one three-bedroom House in Multiple Occupation (HMO)
- three self-contained studio apartments
Most of the work would be internal, with limited external changes including new doors and windows, rooflights, and dormer extensions to create mezzanine sleeping areas.
The site sits within the Ilkeston Conservation Area, although the building itself is not listed.
🔄 Changes from previous plans
A previous application in 2023 to convert the site into a nine-person HMO was refused, partly due to concerns over living conditions and the suitability of the location.
The current scheme reduces the scale of development and introduces a mix of shared and self-contained accommodation.
đźš— Parking and access
Earlier plans showed on-site parking being retained, but revised details indicate a shift away from this.
Highway concerns have been raised about whether vehicles can safely enter and exit the site, and the development may now operate with little or no dedicated parking, instead relying on its town centre location and cycle storage provision.
Access would remain via the existing shared courtyard entrance.
⚠️ Concerns raised
Objections and feedback submitted as part of the planning process highlight several issues, including:
- potential noise impacts from nearby pubs, takeaways and a gym
- drainage and waste management concerns
- pressure on shared access and servicing areas
- questions around site security and suitability for residential use
Environmental Health have also recommended further assessments, including a noise survey and investigation into potential land contamination due to the building’s historic use.
🏛️ Conservation area considerations
The site lies within the Ilkeston Conservation Area and close to a Grade II listed Baptist Chapel.
Concerns have been raised about the scale and design of some external changes, particularly dormer extensions, and whether they could alter the character of the building and surrounding area.
In planning terms, any impact would need to be weighed against the benefits of bringing the building back into use.
đź“Š What happens next?
Four objections have been submitted so far, meaning the application is expected to be decided by the council’s planning committee.
Erewash Borough Council will now assess whether the revised scheme addresses previous concerns and is suitable for the town centre location.
Residents can view the plans and submit comments through the council’s planning portal.
đź’¬ Have your say
Do you think this is a good use of a vacant building – or are there still too many concerns?