Whitworth Mill Redevelopment

Eddisons had acted on behalf of Peterborough City Council in the sale of the derelict Whitworth Mill – an historic but long-abandoned building by the River Nene in the city – and its surrounding site to developer, Lioncross Whitworth Ltd.

The developer then engaged Eddisons’ planning team to submit an application to convert Whitworth Mill as part of the wider Fletton Quays development for mixed commercial (Class E) and residential use, together with the erection of 44 new-build apartments in three blocks on the adjacent vacant site, the straightening of the river’s edge and associated works.

Though not a Listed building, Whitworth Mill is a building of historic interest although associated silos and buildings had been long demolished. The mill site sits within close proximity to and was, historically, associated with Grade II listed buildings – former railway engine sheds (now converted to Peterborough City Council’s offices) & rail workshops. A scheme of over 350 apartments with retail and leisure units had been built during earlier phases of the Fletton Quays development.

The mill had been a focal point for previous anti-social behaviour and in being empty for many years, bats were roosting in the boat tunnel access below the mill.

These historical & wildlife sensitivities had to be respected and reconciled with conversion and new build interventions – such as heat pumps & mechanical ventilation and building design & construction to ensure heat insulation and protection from the use of the opposite river embankment for concerts & events.

Planning consent for the Whitworth Mill mixed use conversion and 44 new-build flats scheme facilitates the final phase of the redevelopment of Fletton Quays – a landmark commercial, residential and leisure destination in the city centre.