Homelessness Charity Secures Approval to Transform Historic Building into Supported Flats

A charity dedicated to addressing homelessness has expressed its delight, calling it “fantastic,” after receiving approval for its proposal to convert a historic property into supported residential units. One Roof Leicester is incorporating the premises at 6-8 St Martins into its existing portfolio of shared residences, which serve individuals transitioning away from rough sleeping. This Grade II listed structure, dating back to the 18th Century and situated adjacent to the King Richard III Visitor Centre, is slated for conversion into 13 independent flats. Salma Ravat, the chief executive of One Roof, stated that the location would represent the “last step in their journey towards independent living” for their clients. She further commented, “To finally get the letter approving the planning application was fantastic for us.” Ms. Ravat added, “It’s the first step – the real hard work starts now.” In their decision to approve the transformation, planning officials from Leicester City Council noted that the required modifications were “relatively minor” and would not “result in the loss” of any of the building’s historical features. Personnel from One Roof Leicester are scheduled to move from their existing offices on Regents Road to the St Martins location, where a chapel will be repurposed into an open-plan office. Ms. Ravat mentioned that the premises had most recently functioned as a religious institution for individuals considering a career in the clergy. According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, the diocese indicated in planning documentation that it had established a rental agreement with One Roof Leicester, characterized as being “far below the market average.” Ms. Ravat stated, “It became empty just over a year or so ago, and the diocese approached us to see if we’d like to use the building for our work.” She continued, “It will give some of our residents the opportunity to learn life skills, paying bills, cooking and cleaning.” Ms. Ravat also noted, “We’ve got space on the ground floor, so we’ll be able to provide on-site training and bring communities into the building.” She emphasized, “This is very much about building community, building a network of support for people who have already proven themselves to be able to live in a shared house.” Concluding, she added, “The plan is once they’re here, we support them and equip them with the skills they need to find an appropriate home.” The proposed development plans garnered extensive backing, with every one of the 49 submissions from the public expressing support. One Roof indicated its aspiration to welcome its initial occupants to St Martin’s no later than summer 2025.