Unicorn Hall gets green light to replace former Preston pub

A new development of serviced apartments has been given the green light at the site of what was The Unicorn pub.

The North Road pub, which closed to the public in 2017, is set to come to life again after planning permission was granted for Unicorn Hall.

The approval for three five storey blocks will see 121 serviced apartments created on behalf of developer HVM North Ltd.

All units are intended for ‘short-term’ rental, with council officers recommending a maximum time limit for occupancy of 90 days a year.

Designed by David Cox Architects, the Grade II listed pub building’s frontage will remain as the prominent feature to the development.

In the remodelled pub, open spaces have been created for groups to meet up socially, alongside private quiet rooms for business meetings. The amenities under the serviced apartments aim to provide everything to create a home from home experience for a short to medium length stay.

Director at David Cox Architects, David Cox, said: “Retaining the iconic pub building on the active street frontage, and sensitively designing new accommodation behind, has allowed us to create a really interesting form and façade treatment.

“We were also mindful to maximise social space within the development. Albeit the accommodation is short-term let, by incorporating a landscaped courtyard, internal communal spaces and a roof-terrace, we are keen for visiting professionals to interact, relax and thoroughly enjoy the period of time they spend in Unicorn Hall, providing a place to live and work in a stimulating environment, shared with people from wide-ranging backgrounds and all services included.”

The site sits on the intersection of North Road with Aqueduct Street and St George’s Road next to the recently developed Canterbury Hall student living accommodation, a previous scheme also designed by David Cox Architects.

The developers have described the site as “the next piece in the jigsaw” for regeneration of the wider area, as part of their ambition to make it a key gateway into the city.

Council officers gave the proposal the green light subject to conditions including noise mitigation measures and an archaeological survey prior to construction work commencing.

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