DPP are pleased to have secured approval at Leicester City Council’s Planning Committee for the redevelopment of the Corah Works site in Leicester.
Brought forward by Cityregen Leicester and Galliford Try Investments, the proposals for the Corah Works will deliver up to 1,100 new homes in a sustainable city-centre location, alongside extensive new public spaces and improved links between the city centre and Abbey Park. Corah Green will be reopened as a civic space, complemented by a new canal-side park, play areas and tree planting.
Heritage consideration is central to the scheme. The façade of the 1865 Old Textile Building and two landmark chimneys will be retained and reintegrated into the development, ensuring the most recognisable parts of the factory remain visible. Original stonework and machinery will also be reused within Corah Green to help tell the story of Leicester’s proud manufacturing past, keeping the site’s history alive.
The scheme makes a significant contribution to Leicester’s housing land supply on a site proposed to be allocated under their emerging Local Plan. Its central location, within walking distance of jobs, shops and public transport, makes it one of the most sustainable opportunities for a new community in Leicester on one of the largest brownfield sites.
DPP have been advising the applicants on this site since 2020, having progressed extensive pre-application discussions and EIA screening works before submitting a comprehensive hybrid planning application. Following detailed engagement with the Council and key stakeholders, this approval at Planning Committee is a key milestone for this catalyst for the wider regeneration in the city.
Speaking about the decision, Oliver Corbett, Associate Director said:
This project has been a marathon effort by the project team, the applicants and the Council over a number of years. Despite acknowledged heritage impacts and strong community and stakeholder sentiment about the history of Corah, we have been able to demonstrate that the significant need for housing growth in the city, alongside extensive public benefits tip the planning balance in support of the proposals, which we’re pleased the Committee were able to recognise. We’re looking forward to progressing next steps on the site and working with the Council to deliver a legacy for the Corah site in the years to come.
Images – Maber Architects
