The Planning and Development Control Committee of Leicester Council is scheduled to meet on Wednesday, 6 May 2026. The meeting's agenda includes a discussion on a planning application for the change of use of buildings at 94-98 Regent Road to student accommodation.

Planning Application for 94-98 Regent Road

A significant item on the agenda is the consideration of a planning application for the properties at 94-98 Regent Road. The proposal involves changing the use of these buildings from educational use (Class F1) to student accommodation, comprising 16 cluster flats with a total of 98 bedrooms. The plans also include the construction of a single-storey extension at the front, infill extensions at the rear, and associated landscaping and parking.

The report pack indicates that the application has been brought before the committee due to an objection from Councillor Patrick Kitterick, who raised concerns about the living conditions for future occupants and the provision of outdoor amenity space. The main considerations for the committee are expected to include the principle of the development, its design, and the impact on neighbouring residential amenity and living conditions. No representations were received from local residents regarding this application. The recommendation outlined in the report pack is to grant conditional approval, subject to a Section 106 agreement for contributions towards NHS services and open space improvements.

The report details that the site was previously used for offices before a change of use to educational purposes was approved in 2009. The current proposal would not result in the loss of existing office space, as that use had already ceased. The report also references emerging policies within the Leicester Local Plan 2020-2036, which is scheduled for adoption in May 2026, and notes that these policies can be afforded significant weight. Specifically, emerging policy CHA09 for the New Walk character area supports the provision of high-quality residential and student accommodation on existing vacant plots.

Regarding living conditions for future occupants, the report pack states that the proposed cluster flats would exceed minimum space standards for Houses in Multiple Occupations. It also notes that approximately 65sqm of usable outdoor amenity space is provided at the rear, which is considered to exceed the requirement for communal amenity space. The report addresses concerns about noise from Regent Road, recommending acoustic trickle vents and mechanical ventilation for habitable rooms facing the road. It also mentions that the development would be subject to conditions to ensure adequate bin storage and waste management.

The report also considers the impact on neighbouring residential amenity, noting that the proposed development would not significantly affect the outlook from the flats at 79 Princess Road East to the north. In terms of design and heritage, the site is located within the New Walk Conservation Area. The proposed single-storey front extension would be finished in cream monocouche render with aluminium-framed windows and doors, and the report suggests that materials details should be submitted for approval. The proposal is considered to comply with relevant policies regarding appearance and visual impact and would not detrimentally affect the character and appearance of the conservation area.

Sustainability measures are also outlined, with the approach in the Sustainable Energy Statement deemed acceptable, subject to further conditioning. The report addresses highways and parking, noting the site's sustainable location and the proposed provision of 4 car parking spaces, including one accessible space, alongside 61 cycle parking spaces. A car-free approach is anticipated for the development, with restrictions on car use during student arrival and departure periods. The report also details requirements for a revised Student Management Plan and Travel Plan.

Flood risk and drainage are addressed, with the site located in Flood Zone 1. A Drainage Strategy report proposes the use of rainwater harvesting, permeable paving, and bioretention/rain gardens, with further details to be secured by condition. Developer contributions are requested from the Leicester, Leicestershire & Rutland Integrated Care Board (LLRICB) for General Practice services and from the Parks/Green Spaces service for improvements to open space provision. These contributions would be secured via a Section 106 legal agreement.

The report concludes that the proposal would provide acceptable living conditions for future students and, subject to conditions and the completion of a Section 106 agreement, would be acceptable in terms of flood risk, drainage, highways, landscaping, materials, impact on the New Walk Conservation Area, and scheme management.

The meeting agenda also includes standard procedural items such as apologies for absence and declarations of interest. An item for Any Other Urgent Business has been accepted due to special circumstances, relating to the planning application for 94-98 Regent Road.