A five-storey block of apartments built around a grade-II listed pub has been finished nearly a year later than planned.

Developers behind the City Studios one-bed serviced apartments and studios say ‘unforeseeable construction delays’ thwarted a July opening last year.

Instead the block of 133 apartments in North Road is to open on Monday 14 April – five years after being granted planning approval.

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Addressing the construction delays, a spokesperson for The Nurtur Group said: “We are committed to opening the doors to City Studios only when it is completed to the highest standards promised. Unfortunately, due to a substantial increase in the cost of materials, this was unachievable in 2024.

“Our valued clients were offered alternative accommodation in Preston to minimise disruption to travel plans. Undoubtedly, this had a significant impact on The Nurtur Group, but we are confident it is worth the wait.”

Operated by The Nurtur Group the studios include an ensuite bathroom and double bed, fully functioning kitchen, dining space and lounge area. The studios are for short to medium-stays.

Managing director of The Nurtur Group, Mark Robinson, said: “We are incredibly excited for the opening of City Studios in Preston following the unprecedented construction obstacles.

“This city is thriving, and our new serviced apartments will plug the gap for business and leisure guests alike looking for a fusion of quality hotel and spacious apartment living.”

The pub itself closed in 2017 and has been converted into apartments as part of the City Studios scheme with the downstairs becoming a shared communal space with the nearby Canterbury Halls.

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