A concrete skeleton, once echoing with the rumble of engines and the scrape of tires, is undergoing a remarkable transformation. In Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire, a disused multi-storey car park is being reborn as a vibrant community of over one hundred apartments.
The Midway car park, deemed structurally unsound for modern vehicles – unable to bear the weight of electric cars – faced demolition. But a bold vision emerged: instead of dismantling the building, why not reimagine its purpose entirely?
This isn’t just a local renovation; it’s a European first. The ambitious project, spearheaded by property developer Capital and Centric, marks the first conversion of a car park into residential flats on the continent. Construction began in January, and residents are expected to move in within the next eighteen months.
The £20 million project, dubbed Karparc, involves stripping away the ramps and internal structure to create spacious one, two, and three-bedroom apartments. Remarkably, each one-bedroom flat will occupy the footprint of five former parking spaces.
The developers aren’t simply creating housing; they’re building a lifestyle. Karparc will boast an on-site gym, a mini cinema, a yoga studio, a dedicated Peloton room, and a comfortable residents’ lounge and library. The original basement of the car park will be preserved, offering convenient storage for residents.
The project wasn’t without its challenges. Tim Heatley, co-founder of Capital and Centric, openly acknowledged the initial skepticism. “Who wants to live in a car park that smells of wee?” he asked, addressing the inherent concerns about repurposing such a space. Issues like potential asbestos contamination also needed careful consideration.
However, the decision to retain the existing concrete frame proved crucial in minimizing costs and maximizing sustainability. It’s a testament to innovative thinking, turning a potential eyesore into a desirable place to live.
Built in the 1960s, the Midway car park became obsolete following the opening of the larger Castle car park in Ryecroft last year. Now, it’s poised to offer “affordable housing for local working people,” with estimated rental costs between £900 and £1,000 per month.
Heatley describes the project as “architecturally incredible,” a bold statement that reflects the ambition of transforming a symbol of utilitarian function into a thriving residential hub. It’s a story of reimagining space, overcoming obstacles, and building a future from the foundations of the past.
