New plans to turn former Dundee nightclub The Reading Rooms into a pub and flats have been revealed.
Dundee property developers Blackscroft Property Company (BPC) have had fresh plans drawn up by Wilson Paul Architects for the proposal of over 30 homes in the Blackscroft area of Dundee.
The project is still at an early stage, with initial designs submitted to Dundee City Council’s planning department.
The plans outline a number of redevelopments in the area, including the conversion of the St Roque’s Library site, best known as the former Reading Rooms nightclub, into a gastro pub and six flats.
Another 24 flats would be build adjacent to St Roque’s under the plans.
It comes after the same property developers were given the green light to turn the Reading Rooms into a restaurant and beer garden in 2020.
As the beer garden neared completion, it was expected to open in May 2021, following £800,000 worth of works.
But following “unforeseen” issues regarding work to the B-listed building, the bar never opened.
Derek Souter of BPC said: “This was a pandemic inspired initiative that foundered upon unforeseen issues relating to the required works to preserve this Grade B beautiful building.”
Now Derek is hoping to restore the building to provide indoor and outdoor casual dining, along with the development of six flats within the listed building.
He said: “The roof replacement being a huge cost and the idea to then fund this via accommodation spaces is one answer.
“The current spare area at the top between St Roque’s Church and St Roque’s Library would be converted to an access/drop off/exit area as there is not one currently.
“Then the option to bring back music events can be restored.
“Early discussions with promoters have gone well.”
Housing development plans at Blackscroft
The £5m development also involves plans to transform the former St Roque’s Episcopal Church into seven flats, an allotment and car park.
As well as these, BPC have drawn up plans to erect 24 affordable flats on Foundry Lane, adjacent to the church.
Derek said he hopes more progress on the plans will be made in March.
The property developer also said he hopes the plans will mean the re-opening of the public path from Dundee Road and Foundry Lane.
Derek said: “The city centre and Dundee needs more housing and this project was not on anyone’s list for development.
“This is indeed a plus for Dundee.”
A spokesperson for Wilson Paul Architects said: “We are pleased to be supporting BPC with their vision for the comprehensive redevelopment of the Blackscroft area, which we hope will further add to the city’s ambitious city centre strategic plan.
“The proposals submitted are in the form of a masterplan that includes the Blackscroft ‘triangle’, with interlinked amenity spaces and a suggested redevelopment of each existing area.”
