A concrete skeleton, once echoing with the rumble of engines and the scrape of tires, is undergoing a radical transformation. In Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire, a disused multi-storey car park is being reborn as a modern residential space, a project unlike any other in Europe.
Originally slated for demolition, the Midway car park was deemed structurally unsound for the weight of today’s vehicles – particularly the increasing number of electric cars. But instead of being reduced to rubble, it’s being meticulously reimagined into 111 new apartments, a testament to innovative urban renewal.
Construction, named Karparc, began earlier this year, and involves a complete overhaul of the existing structure. Ramps are being removed, making way for spacious one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, with an extension planned for the rooftop to accommodate even more residents.
The scale of the conversion is striking. Each single-bedroom flat will occupy the footprint of five former parking spaces, offering a surprising amount of living area within the repurposed frame. The project aims to deliver much-needed housing, with anticipated rental costs between £900 and £1,000 per month.
The ambitious undertaking isn’t without its challenges. Developers openly acknowledge the initial perception – “Who wants to live in a car park that smells of wee?” – and the potential hurdles of asbestos and structural concerns. But they believe the benefits of repurposing the existing concrete outweigh the difficulties.
Beyond the apartments themselves, Karparc will offer a suite of amenities designed to foster a vibrant community. Residents will have access to an on-site gym, a mini cinema, a yoga studio, a Peloton room, and a comfortable residents’ lounge and library.
The building’s history is also part of its appeal. Constructed in the 1960s, the Midway car park served the town for decades before closing in early 2025, following the opening of a larger facility nearby. The basement, the only part of the original structure remaining largely untouched, will provide additional space for residents.
This isn’t simply about creating new homes; it’s about breathing new life into a forgotten space, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable development and offering a unique living experience within a landmark structure.
