26 Feb 2026
At CPMG, we’re always exploring how innovation can unlock new possibilities in architecture. Most recently, our Architectural Assistant and award-winning AI designer, Qasim Iqbal, has developed a bold new concept that reimagines the future of the iconic Ratcliffe-on-Soar Power Station.
A recognisable landmark for those travelling in and out of Nottingham via Remembrance Way (A453), the power station has defined the skyline for decades. Since its closure in September 2024 - marking the end of the UK’s 142-year reliance on fossil fuels - the site has remained empty, prompting important conversations about its future and the role it could play in a new era of regeneration.
Exploring What’s Next
With Rushcliffe Borough Council currently seeking views on changes to its local development order (LDO) to enable the creation of data centres, change is clearly on the horizon.
While consultation is focused on digital infrastructure, Qasim’s AI-led concept explores a broader spectrum of possibilities for the site - offering a futuristic visualisation of how existing structures could be repurposed and how large-scale infrastructure can be meaningfully regenerated.
Using AI as a design tool, we’ve been able to rapidly test ideas, interrogate spatial potential, and visualise outcomes that spark new conversations about what this landmark could become.
Cooling Towers as Cultural Spaces
Qasim’s AI designs for the site amplify the potential that the existing cooling towers have as performance venues – using their unique acoustic qualities. This idea builds on recent activity at the power station, in which musicians have utilised the towers for musical performances for the first time.
This approach positions the power station not simply as a relic of industrial heritage, but as a future cultural destination - blending history, performance and experience.
A “Sponge City” Approach to Flooding
The site’s known flooding challenges also present opportunity. Qasim’s concept incorporates a “sponge city” strategy, integrating standing water management with cohesive landscape design. This approach demonstrates how environmental resilience and placemaking can work together - transforming a constraint into a defining feature of the masterplan.
By embedding water-sensitive urban design principles, the wider site could evolve into a more sustainable, ecologically responsive environment.
Unlocking New Realms of Possibility
Reflecting on the project, Qasim said:
From the site being used as an educational and performance space, through to hybrid uses that accommodate a cultural or science hub, there are many design avenues to explore to realise its true potential.
“The Ratcliffe-on-Soar power station is an iconic piece of architecture in Nottinghamshire. Using AI, we’ve been able to gain incredible insight into what its future may really look like.
As the current consultation focuses on the introduction of new data centres, I’m keen to see how things progress - and how closely future proposals may align with my AI designs if they are to become reality.
Looking at the wider site, its potential can go even further through AI design, allowing us to open doors that may have previously been locked and uncover new realms of possibility - not only for this site, but for other brownfield sites across the UK.”
Award-Winning Innovation
In 2025, Qasim’s expertise was recognised by the International AI Design Awards, where he received both a second-place award and a special recognition award for two architectural concepts.
As a practice, we continue to explore how emerging technologies can complement BIM and traditional design methodologies - strengthening our creative process rather than replacing it.
Richard Flisher, Managing Director, commented:
“Innovation plays an important role in architecture and is something we’re continually exploring at CPMG. With AI opening up new possibilities every day, it’s exciting to see how emerging technologies can support the design process. Seeing how Qasim has used AI to develop ideas into engaging design concepts highlights the talent of the next generation and the fresh perspectives shaping the future of our sector.”
A Continued Connection to the Site
Our connection to the area spans many years, including our involvement in the design of the adjacent East Midlands Parkway Railway Station.
As conversations around the future of Ratcliffe-on-Soar continue, this AI-led exploration demonstrates how technology, creativity and heritage can intersect — opening up new possibilities for regeneration, sustainability and long-term community impact.
