The changing face of Nottingham's 'lively' East Side has been described by locals as its 'unbelievable' transformation continues. Two large student accommodation projects are currently under construction with 354 student bedrooms being built at the former Housing Aid site on Lower Parliament Street and a further 215 at Nelson Court next to Sneinton Market.
They are the latest on a long list of student blocks to spring up in the eastern part of the city, with further buildings currently in the planning process along Glasshouse Street. A total of 401 student rooms could be built in Rick Street, opposite the Victoria Centre parking entrance and another 568 will replace a complex of offices on King Edward Street.
Local residents had mixed thoughts on the rapidly changing area on the eastern edge of the city centre. June de'Ath, 74, from West Bridgford, thought the level of change in the city was unbelievable. "I can't believe all these buildings are for students, it's a lot in this one area. You can see all the students on the weekends - the city is full and very lively.
"It's surprising that there is still a demand for more rooms, but as long as there is demand I don't see why not. We've got two universities and I think now they're also bringing in lots of international students."
Retiree June Drury, 84, from West Bridgford added: "There's a lot going on here - they are building a lot in Lenton as well next to QMC. The good thing is that they are on brownfield sites that you can't turn into a lot else.
"We do need more social housing but you wouldn't be able to build it in the places they are putting student buildings. It frees up family houses in the city that are being used as student flats."
Thousands of new student rooms have been approved for construction to keep up with the high demand created by the University of Nottingham and Nottingham Trent University. Some residents were more uncertain over the change in the area.
Abdul Khan, 45, who lives in Radford, said: "I'm not sure it is all good for the city, but the students do bring in business. I sometimes just think it is too much building.
"But then what else would be built in this area. This one [Nelson Court] is going up quite quickly."
The east side of the side of the city is 'quietly undergoing' a significant change, according to East Midlands Chamber. Chief executive Scott Knowles said: “While the southern gateway into Nottingham has grabbed plenty of attention, the eastern side of the city is quietly undergoing a facelift that will drive lots of economic activity to the area.
“The reimagination of the Lace Market and wider Hockley area into a bustling cultural hub, coupled with the success of the nearby Motorpoint Arena in creating a first-tier entertainment offering, has attracted new investment that is helping to bring a new lease of life to a key corridor.
“The importance of finally making some real progress in redeveloping the previously derelict Island Quarter site, one of Europe’s largest city centre regeneration projects, can’t be understated as it signals to outsiders that Nottingham is a city on the up and ripe for backing.
“We are now seeing modern accommodation blocks being built that not only improves the visual appearance, but will drive more footfall to local businesses and lead to new amenities being established for residents, workers and visitors.
“These are all vital ingredients in creating a sustainable city centre fit for the 21st century that entices people to spend their time and money.
“It’s vital we now continue to make progress with the Island Quarter development by getting behind plans for further stages as they are introduced and ensuring the full vision for Broad Marsh is realised – starting with the Government providing key funding by approving the Levelling Up Fund bid lodged by the city council.”
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