Architects unveil radical new plans for Barnstaples civic centre

Barnstaple based Peregrine Mears Architects believe the civic centre could provide up to 84 modern apartments. Artist's impression by Peregrine Mears Architects

Andy Keeble Monday, March 3, 2014 4:22 PM

Councils move to vacate the building inspires design for modern riverside apartments.

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ARCHITECTS have outlined radical new plans for the future of the civic centre in Barnstaple.

Following last weeks Gazette front page story about North Devon District Councils plans to vacate the Devon County Council-owned building, local property experts say the riverside spot could provide much-needed homes in the area.

Barnstaple based Peregrine Mears Architects believe it could provide up to 84 apartments, as well as community facilities including a gym, fitness studio, crche, meeting rooms and a rooftop caf on the second floor.

It is envisaged that the car park along the riverside could be enhanced with planting and landscaping and there is even an idea to create rooftop gardens for residents.

Practice director Peregrine Mears said: While there is not a lot of love locally for the civic centre, maybe the time is right to consider an alternative use that will take the building into the 21st century.

We believe the building is capable of conversion to residential use. We have looked at the possibility of this in principle and believe it is achievable.

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Architects unveil radical new plans for Barnstaples civic centre