Plans to transform Nottingham’s former Royal Mail office

Developer Godwin Developments has announced plans to transform the former Royal Mail sorting office in Nottingham into a new mixed-use residential scheme

The company has unveiled ambitious plans to demolish the former Royal Mail sorting office and transform it into a large mixed-use residential development.

Godwin has entered into an agreement to purchase the site from Emma Property Management Ltd.

Located within the Creative Quarter and just a six-minute walk from the city centre, once under way this scheme will create around 300 jobs during the construction phase – and 40 full-time positions when fully operational.

It will deliver accommodation within walking distance of both universities and Nottingham’s train station, improve the availability of new residential stock in the city and significantly grow the aesthetics of the area.

Breathe new life into an iconic building

Stephen Pratt, group land director for Godwin Developments, said: “To say we are pleased to have acquired this major site in my own home city is an understatement.

“We are truly excited about the opportunity to breathe new life into this iconic and historical building within Nottingham city centre, which has been prime for redevelopment since the former Royal Mail office closed in 2002.

“The scheme will provide much-needed brand new residential units in the city, which is in the midst of a £2bn construction boom.

“We intend to take the development forward quickly, and will work closely with local planners, the community and the council to ensure it provides the best possible opportunities for Nottingham.”

A planning application will be lodged with Nottingham City Council in the next two to three months and work is expected to start on site in the next 18 to 24 months.

Transformation of Nottingham city centre

Emma Property named the former Royal Mail sorting office the Bendigo Building because of its close proximity to the memorial to William ‘Bendigo’ Thompson, Nottingham’s famous 19th-century bare-knuckle fighter.

Veteran property developer, Ken Grundy said: “The Bendigo Building is a significant site within the city of Nottingham and I am very pleased that my family business, Emma Property Management and Godwin Developments have been able to collaborate on the redevelopment of this important site at the western edge of the Creative Quarter.

“Godwin Developments’ plans for the redevelopment will support the on-going transformation of Nottingham’s city centre and will provide a great boost to the region during these unprecedented times.”

Architects for the scheme are RG+P and the deal was managed by the real estate team at Irwin Mitchell.

Godwin Developments were also supported by civil engineering experts HSP Consulting.