A former multi-storey car park in Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire, is undergoing a significant transformation into 111 apartments, marking a groundbreaking project in the UK. The car park, which originally housed 655 spaces, was slated for demolition due to its inability to support modern electric vehicles. Recognizing its potential, property developer Capital & Centric committed to the project two years ago, investing approximately £20 million in the redevelopment.
The project commenced in January 2026, despite initial skepticism from local residents. Co-founder Tim Heatley expressed confidence in the project’s success, stating that the revitalized structure will be “architecturally incredible.” The redevelopment involves removing the ramps of the car park to create new floors, with each one-bedroom apartment occupying the space previously used for five parking spots.
The newly branded apartment building, named Karparc, will feature one, two, and three-bedroom units, all designed with exposed concrete columns. In addition to residential spaces, the development will incorporate amenities such as a basement car park, an on-site gym, a mini cinema, a yoga studio, a Peloton room, and a residents’ lounge and library.
Tim Heatley, originally from Manchester, highlighted the environmental benefits of repurposing existing structures. “Cars have got bigger and heavier,” he explained. The local council aimed to build a new car park to accommodate these vehicles, but Heatley and his team proposed converting the existing site into living spaces, citing benefits such as time savings and reduced carbon footprint.
“The concrete frame is already in place, which saves carbon and is more economical,” he noted. The high thermal mass of concrete also provides excellent insulation, making the apartments more affordable to heat. This approach reduces financial risk, as the existing structure and foundations are already in place, allowing for quicker construction and lower borrowing costs.
While acknowledging the challenges of converting a derelict car park into residential units, Heatley remains optimistic. “We know the structure is there and the foundations already,” he stated. Concerns about potential issues like odors or asbestos have been addressed, with the developer determined to overcome any obstacles.
Tim Heatley remarked that it was only during their research that they realized this venture might be a first for the UK. He shared that both the council and the public were understandably hesitant at first, a common reaction in such pioneering projects. “When it gets done, it will be stunning and architecturally incredible,” he asserted, expressing confidence that critics will be silenced once the apartments are completed.
The anticipated rental prices for the apartments will range between £900 and £1,000 for one-bedroom units, with two and three-bedroom apartments priced higher. Heatley emphasized that these rates are aimed at being affordable for local working individuals, further contributing to the community’s housing needs.
As this ambitious project progresses, it stands as a testament to innovative approaches in urban redevelopment, potentially setting a precedent for similar initiatives across the UK and beyond.
