A new proposal aims to replace the Odeon Arcade with flats and shops after the previous plan was rejected
Leicester: There’s a fresh push to knock down the Odeon Arcade and put up some new flats. The last plan didn’t fly back in September 2023.
City planners had some serious concerns about the original proposal. They said it just wasn’t good enough, mainly because it would create poor living conditions and look bad in the area.
Now, the applicant, Mr. Almudaihesh, is back with a new plan. This time, he wants to build fewer flats. They still plan to mostly demolish the old 1960s building but keep the cool Art Deco front from the 1920s.
Mr. Almudaihesh pointed out that the current building is pretty run down and doesn’t do much for the neighborhood. Plus, many of the shops are often empty.
The new plan includes 39 homes and 13 shops, which is a drop from the earlier idea of 53 apartments and 10 stores. The new building would be six stories tall.
They’re aiming for a design that’s inspired by London’s fancy arcades, with big glass shop fronts and nice details. The idea is to make it feel more upscale and inviting.
They also want to make the walkway through the arcade wider and straighter to help with foot traffic. It should make things less crowded.
There will be a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom homes, plus a nice courtyard for residents. They’re also planning some outdoor space on the upper floors.
Interestingly, there won’t be any car parking, but they’re including 65 bike spaces for residents and a couple for shop staff.
The last proposal faced a lot of pushback from locals and shop owners. Many felt that the existing shops were important to the community.
Roy Bhalla, who runs a shop in the arcade, was pretty shocked by the first plan. He’s been in business for 40 years and is still trying to wrap his head around it.
He mentioned that the city center is already struggling, and losing more shops would just add to the problems.
As of now, there’s no word on when the public can weigh in on this new plan. The council is aiming to make a decision by March 23.
