Small enterprises are set to be relocated from a building in Plymouth's Royal William Yard to enable its conversion into residential properties.
The Ocean Studios creative and arts business hub will be transferred to Devonport Guildhall, allowing the remaining portion of the Factory Cooperage block to be transformed into homes.
Plymouth City Council has received a planning application to redevelop the outstanding section of the Grade I listed structure. This will represent the second development phase of the Factory Cooperage, delivering 24 new "luxury" townhouses.
READ MORE: {}
The proposals would finalise the conversion of the historic former victualling yard building, after the first residential phase was completed over the past two years. Urban Splash, the Manchester-headquartered firm regenerating the yard, stated the planning application signifies the next stage in the continuing redevelopment of the 200-year-old former naval facility.
Urban Splash has collaborated with Totnes-based Poppy Developments to deliver the housing project and indicated it will build upon the achievements of phase one, which has already delivered 24 town houses constructed around a courtyard and gardens. Meanwhile, Real Ideas plans to relocate its Ocean Studios from the Factory Cooperage to Devonport Guildhall.
It said this forms part of a strategic initiative to consolidate its creative operations in Devonport, where Real Ideas also operates the renovated Devonport Markethall.
Real Ideas remained silent on the future of the cafe within the Factory Cooperage, which appears shuttered, though confirmed Ocean Studios' relocation provides Urban Splash with an opportunity to reimagine the building's purpose and transform it into residential accommodation, reports .
The firm explained the proposed second phase development supports Royal William Yard's broader vision, striking a balance between residential properties and the destination's "thriving retail, dining and cultural offerings".
Most Read
It noted the yard has continued its transformation throughout its bicentennial year, with Arcade's recent launch in the former Club House restaurant space within the Brewhouse providing six fresh retail and leisure units, whilst a new car park expansion project progresses steadily.
Tom Lowry, Urban Splash's development manager for Royal William, said: "Poppy Developments has established itself as a trusted partner within the yard community. Their expertise in sensitively converting these historic buildings, combined with their understanding of what buyers are looking for, makes them the ideal developer to complete this important project."
The proposed custom-built two, three and four bedroom townhouses are set to enhance the existing phase one properties, forming a "cohesive residential community within one of Plymouth's most prestigious waterfront locations". Urban Splash has reported a positive response for the homes in phase one, with only five properties remaining unsold.
Lang Town and Country has listed properties in the Factory Cooperage ranging from £430,000 to £650,000 for three-bedroom townhouses, and £775,000 for a four-bedroom property. The new townhouses would maintain the same high-end specifications and thoughtful design as those in phase one, according to Urban Splash, featuring "generous proportions across multiple floors and outdoor spaces designed to maximise the breath-taking maritime setting".
The company said each property would combine modern comfort with the rich heritage of the location, upholding the exacting standards that have made Royal William Yard "synonymous with quality living". Factory Cooperage is one of the last major buildings to be transformed within Royal William Yard.
The heritage site, home to the largest collection of Grade I listed military buildings in Europe, has seen significant transformation since Urban Splash began its regeneration work 20 years ago. In April, Urban Splash borrowed £16.2m to fund its ongoing commercial development.
The firm secured a substantial refinancing arrangement spanning five years with The Co-operative Bank, encompassing 174,000sq ft of "prime commercial space". Over 57,000sq ft of the site awaits future development, with Urban Splash describing it as "primed with potential".
Don’t miss
The Royal William Yard houses prominent tenants such as an Everyman Cinema, art galleries, specialist shops, and dining establishments. Nevertheless, the site has experienced several recent departures, including the Pho Vietnamese eatery in the Melville building this January.
Last April, South West burger chain Hub Box closed its branch within the same structure. The Club House ceased trading in 2023, merely three months following Prezzo's closure of its restaurant in the Mills Bakery building.
Despite these setbacks, the yard has witnessed notable achievements, with the News Cafe launching to critical praise in August 2024 within the premises formerly occupied by Prezzo.