Plan to convert landmark Coventry office building into 102 apartments

[dutchman]

Sutherland House has stood on the main road in Foleshill for years



A masterplan has revealed a new future for a landmark Coventry office building. For years, Sutherland House has been one of the most well-known buildings on Matlock Road.

But instead of being an office, it could have a new future as a change of use application has been submitted to Coventry City Council. It asks for the green light to turn the office building into 102 residential apartments with amenity facilities and associated works.

Within the application is an artists impression of what the building would look like if planning permission is granted. A decision and access statement explains: "While the proposed redevelopment of Sutherland House, from office use to residential` use, has been discussed above in terms of maximising the potential of the site, there are also significant benefits associated with the strategy of reuse and conversion rather than building new.

"The reuse and adaptation of Sutherland House will contribute to the regeneration and sustainable development of the local area at many levels. The advantages of building reuse range from tangible environmental benefits to less tangible benefits such as place identity and social cohesion."

It goes on: "Aside from the environmental sustainability benefits of reusing the building, there are other social benefits to retaining Sutherland House. Due to its prominent location close to the busy Foleshill Road and the Coventry Canal, Sutherland House will inevitablybe a recognisable landmark for residents and visitors to the area.

"Repurposing the building, rather than demolishing and building new, will help to preserve the local identity and sense of place.The building will be upgraded to minimise heat loss in the building and meet the Building Regulations Part L standards as a minimum."

Of the 102 units,there would be 57 one bedroom apartments, 42, two bedroom apartments and three studio apartments.The ground floor level consists of a number of apartments, as well as reception area/residents lounge and secure bike store for 120 bikes, as well as back of house areas.

As this is a former office building, there is room for up to 159 parking spaces within the site. In conclusion, the application states: "The proposals have been developed with the view of creating a quality scheme that complements and enhances the setting. The design looks to optimise the site and will allow the building to fulfil its potential, maximising its prime location to contribute effectively to the growing housing need in the city."

The application is now being looked at by the planning team at the city council. As part of this, consultation will until November 13.

The plans can be viewed on the council's website here, under reference number PL/2023/0001689/FULM

[rebbonk]

I really can't see this happening.