Newark Town Council objects to plans for 24 new residential apartments at former Castlegate Centre in Newark

Storage concerns proved a sticking point as objections were raised over town centre apartment plans.

An application has been made for the former Castlegate Centre in Newark, which seeks to subdivide the first, second, and attic floors to create 24 new residential apartments.

These would be split between 15 studio apartments, five one-bedroom apartments, and four two-bedroom apartments.

The centre was built in the early 2000s, and despite falling within the Newark Conservation area, it is not a listed building. It has previously housed a bingo hall, gym, and bowling alley.

As part of the apartment plans, minor adjustments to the façade of the building are proposed, including a new window in an existing gable and the provision of new dormer windows.

Although the plans could see dozens of new residents living in the building, no new parking provision has been included in the proposals — additional bin storage is also not included.

However, the applicant states that the proximity of other facilities in the town centre is within walking distance and therefore “the lack of parking provision can be offset” by “more sustainable access options” such as public transport.

Newark Town Council discussed the plans at its most recent planning meeting, with councillors unanimous in their support to increase town centre living, but unsure about the details of the plans.

Laurence Goff said: “I think this is a good idea.

“We need more people living in the town centre with all the shops nearby, and we need to be encouraging more places like this rather than people driving everywhere.”

Members, including Barbara Corrigan, also noted the comments made by the county highways authority, which said cycle storage should be provided, with up to “28 secure, covered cycle parking spaces” as well as “cycle equipment storage facilities.”

Lynn Roulstone said she thought the ideas was good in principle, but would prefer to see half the number of flat in the building.

Others were more critical, with Esther Cropper, saying: “It looks like they will cram as many [apartments] in as possible, and I think they need to reduce that amount.

“We do need small, affordable accommodation, but not at any price.”

Mathew Skinner said: “I remember when that building was built — it is such a shame that those businesses have failed.

“But I don’t think we should be lowering our standards here.

“If this was any other brand new application, we’d expect bin and cycle storage, so I’m not overly content.”

The planning committee objected to the plans, but supported the principle of more town centre accommodation.