
Plans to build 39 new homes on a Lancaster city centre car park have been submitted.
The proposals for Nelson Street - near Lancaster Town Hall and the Cathedral - form part of the masterplan to transform the Canal Quarter area of Lancaster.
In all, 39 residential units comprising of four dwellinghouses, two four-storey apartment blocks and one two-storey apartment block with associated parking, landscaping, public realm, associated infrastructure and alterations to the canal wall, would be created if the plans get the green light.
The council's Canal Quarter masterplan includes around 580 new homes in the city centre, new work, retail, food and beverage space, a vibrant mixed-use neighbourhood to complement the city centre, the Brewery as a landmark building, new pedestrian and cycle-friendly streets and new pedestrian access to the canal.
Read more: Lancaster Canal Quarter revamp is officially backed by council - Beyond Radio
The applicant is South Lakes Housing.
"Overall, the proposed development presents a positive opportunity to improve and regenerate this part of the Lancaster Conservation Area," says a report submitted with the plans.
"The proposals can sustain the special character and appearance of the Lancaster Conservation Area. This is subject to ensuring a high-quality scheme which includes appropriate contextual materials, detail, and landscaping.
"Overall, the proposed development will sustain the significance of Lancaster Cathedral and those elements of setting which positively contribute.
"Similarly, the proposed location and siting of the proposed development, together with its height and massing ensures that views to and alongside Lancaster Town Hall are not impacted."
Earlier this year, South Lakes Housing and Tyson Construction were given exclusive rights to draw up proposals for a new affordable housing and mixed tenure development on the Nelson Street car park.
Read more: Plans to build 49 new homes on Lancaster car park take step forward - Beyond Radio
The new housing is part of Lancaster City Council's long-held ambition to develop the Canal Quarter, transforming derelict and underused land into a brand new neighbourhood.
South Lakes Housing is an independent, not-for-profit housing association and has previously worked with the city council on the award-winning Lune Walk development at Halton.
The council already has longer-term plans to build on car parks on St Leonard's Gate and Edward Street.
But the plans have been opposed by residents and Lancaster business owners, who are worried about a potential loss of parking spaces.
Read more: Council raises target for car parking spaces in Lancaster after public backlash - Beyond Radio
Lancaster City Council will make a decision on the planning application in due course.