Latest plans to transform the former Unicorn Pub into short-term rental apartments seeks approval to amend the building and for the removal of a condition after being given the green light in 2020.

The proposal is to convert the historic grade II listed building in North Road, into five to three storey blocks consisting of 121 apartments with a roof terrace, bicycle storage, and landscaping areas.

New plans include change of use, part demolition and external change to the Unicorn public house to create five serviced apartments at first floor and communal space at ground floor.

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The applicant Unicorn Developments Ltd, requests removal of condition three to allow for longer term temporary occupancy of the apartments for use by a wider set of groups including students, apprentices and key workers.

The short-term rental units would have a maximum time limit for occupancy of 90 days per calendar year.

The applicant now wants this restriction extended to 51 weeks.

A planning statement prepared by David Cox Architects highlights how there is a ‘need’ for longer term commercial leases in the city centre area for working professionals.

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Pointing out that the UCLan student accommodation, Canterbury Halls, near the proposed site has a number of apartments that are subject to leases with the NHS for key workers.

The planning statement said: “A restriction on occupancy of 51 weeks ties in with standard student leases but would also allow the premises to be utilised by key workers, apprentices and those in the City on business.

“This length of lease would give the Council comfort that the apartments would not be occupied as sole or main dwellings and the applicants would be prepared to enter into a legal agreement to this effect to provide the Council with more certainty on this matter.”

The premises would be managed by Nurtur Student Living known for providing a high-quality accommodation.

To view the full proposals visit the Preston City Council website.

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