A Nottingham bunker built to survive a Cold War nuclear apocalypse could be given a starkly different future use under new plans. Property developer Hamilton Russell Homes, which bought the War Rooms and the land around it in 2022, is planning to transform the 1950s command centre on Chalfont Drive in Beechdale, Nottingham, into a thriving creative hub.
The surrounding land would be used to deliver 103 affordable homes in partnership with East Midlands Homes, the developers explained. The property company behind the planned redevelopment has now launched a public consultation on its proposals for the Grade-II listed building dubbed ‘The Kremlin’ by locals.
Base 51 offers services including counselling, activities and health support to people between the ages of 11 and 25 - and has a hub for young people in the city at the NGYmyplace centre in Castle Gate. The youth group currently faces closure or relocation after Nottingham City Council withdrew all of its financial support.
"This opportunity for Base 51 supports their ambitious growth plan, creating a sustainable model for generating income that will provide funds to expand their programmes. The vision for the revamped Nottingham War Rooms aligns with the principles of community engagement and empowerment, setting the stage for Base 51 to continue making a positive impact on the lives of young people in the area for the foreseeable future.