Planning consent has been granted on appeal for 279 flats as an extension to the existing Code Student Housing in Leicester.

The city council had refused consent, and one of the reasons was the effect of the increased number of students on Open Space, specifically the adjacent Bede Park. The City Council contended that there was nothing that could be done to improve matters. Gary Holliday gave evidence at the appeal on the existing use and condition of the park. Working with Play expert Jane Fortescue also from the FPCR team, Gary and Jane also identified a range of measures that could be developed to increase the use and capacity of the park. The inspector agreed that there was not likely to be degradation of the park, and that a financial contribution through an unilateral undertaking was an appropriate approach for the provision or enhancement of greenspace and recreational provision in the area.

The full inspectors decision can be read here.