Huge St Marks Scheme Faces Setback

Plans to redevelop St Marks in Lincoln to build more than 1,300 student bedrooms have been rejected, following criticism of its design.

The project, which would result in 10 buildings, ranging from four to 10 storeys, forms part of a £150 million redevelopment of the site, which was granted outline planning permission in 2017.

In total, the development would result in 1,372 bedrooms, constructed in phases of 407, 408 and 557 bedrooms, with the scheme to be complete in 2022.

Applicant Aberdeen Standard Investments already has approval to demolish the former Homebase, Lidl, Topps Tiles and part of the BHS unit in order to make way for the purpose-built accommodation.

However, councillors were critical of the proposed design, suggesting it harkened back to the 50s and 60s and had an American-style look.

Commenting on the design, councillor Bob Bushell called the building 'bland' and 'boring'.

However, not all councillors were as dismissive, with councillor Naomi Tweddle suggesting the building reflected Lincoln's industrial heritage.

Once complete, the huge development will also include a number of new shops, hotel and a car park with up to 1,100 spaces.