Images show what two luxury apartment blocks coming to Preston city centre are expected to look like
Work to transform the old Department for Work and Pensions offices, Red Rose and Elizabeth House, began in January this year after plans were given the green light in August 2019.
The high rises at Bishopgate Gardens in Ormskirk Road will be made up of 130 flats and are expected to be complete in September 2021.
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Hide AdChris Holland, director at developers The Heaton Group, said: “The building is in a prime spot for modernisation, especially with some of the new civic development schemes that are underway in the area.
“The exterior will be clad in distinctive, contemporary black and gold aluminium panels, transforming the building into a recognisable landmark.
“Our landscape architects have designed the plaza at the entrance of the building and the roof gardens with stunning city views.”
Images show that the roof-top gardens on the eighth and eleventh floors will feature a modern planting scheme with foliage to create an urban jungle feel and ambient lighting to make it a comfortable place to relax on long summer evenings.
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Hide AdOldham and Chester-based architect, Studio KMA, has been brought on board by The Heaton Group to collaborate on the residential development.
Andy Titterton, Studio KMA, said: “Together with The Heaton Group, we have created a very efficient, attractive new landmark mixed-use development for the city centre.
“We’re really pleased to be working with such a forward thinking developer that considers the significant carbon savings of refurbishment projects compared to new-build construction.
“This is one refurbishment project, we believe, that will surpass the aesthetic and functional specifications of any new-build project in the area.”
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Hide AdCommunal spaces in the apartment blocks will include a residents’ lounge with 24-hour concierge, communal rooftop gardens and seven retail units overlooking the plaza including a barber shop, florist and deli store.
Chris said: “The communal spaces have all been designed by the Studio KMA interior design team, to create a spectacular welcome for residents and visitors to the building. These areas will also act as a central point for ‘The Common’ shared working space and commercial units on the ground floor.
“The one, two and three-bedroomed apartments have all been designed by Studio KMA with functionality and style in mind.
“The rooms are well proportioned and they all have luxury kitchens and bathrooms and high quality fixtures and fittings throughout.”
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Hide AdSmart technology will be incorporated throughout the building, meaning simpler management, lower costs and smarter rental options as well as remote heating access and fob access to the building.
Mayor of Preston Coun David Borrow said: “I think the contrast between these flats and other flats in the country is that they are obviously good quality.
“They applied for planning permission so the council was able to ensure all our standards were applied. In some places flats are pretty rubbish but I think these are excellent, a fine example of city centre living.
“I hope in the future other developers with affordable homes will come forward with flats for the city.””
Proposals for the apartment blocks do not include any space for car parking but do include a storage area for 50 bicycles.
The office blocks have been vacant since October 2018.