25 Nov 2025
Insights from Steve Milan, Project Architect on the Nottingham War Rooms Redevelopment
The recent planning approval for the Nottingham War Rooms marks more than the regeneration of a unique Cold War-era site. It also unlocks 104 much-needed affordable homes that will support long-term growth and stability in the Beechdale community.
Rising living costs and pressure on local authorities continue to shape the national housing landscape - and with the Government pledging to deliver 1.5 million new homes across the country - the project highlights how thoughtfully designed social housing can deliver meaningful, lasting value. We spoke with Steve Milan, Associate at CPMG, about why these homes matter now more than ever - and how design can play a pivotal role in improving everyday life.
A Responsibility to People, Not Just Place
“Social housing isn’t about ticking boxes,” Steve says. “It’s about giving people somewhere safe, uplifting and dependable to live. Housing affects everything - from wellbeing to opportunity - so it has to be designed with care.”
For Steve, affordability should never come at the expense of quality. His approach focuses on durable materials, layouts that adapt as families grow, and energy-efficient solutions that help keep running costs down.
“We’re designing homes that last,” he adds. “Spaces that work for people as their circumstances change, and buildings that perform well environmentally and socially for decades.”
This grounded, longevity-led approach ensures residents aren’t just accommodated - they’re supported.
A Regeneration Project Rooted in Local Needs
One of the strengths of the War Rooms redevelopment is the way housing is woven into a wider mix of community and commercial uses. The new homes will sit alongside co-working areas, wellbeing spaces, cultural experiences and opportunities for small businesses.
“When you combine good housing with shared places where people can work, meet and participate, you’re building neighbourhoods that feel connected and resilient,” Steve explains.
Repurposing the historic bunker brings an extra layer of significance. The project retains key elements of the original 1950s–60s structure while opening it up for new community-focused uses - bridging past and future in a meaningful way.
“Heritage gives people a sense of identity,” Steve says. “By keeping the building’s character alive and integrating it into daily life, we’re adding depth and pride to the wider development.”
Langcroft’s role in this scheme demonstrates how developers can deliver high-quality, fully affordable social housing that genuinely supports communities. By prioritising thoughtful design, accessible layouts, and sustainable performance, the collaboration shows that large-scale housing delivery - including targets like the Government’s 1.5 million homes pledge - can still be human-centred.
Today’s social housing has to do more than provide shelter. Issues such as isolation, flexible working and mental health are reshaping expectations of where and how people live.
“Getting the basics right - natural light, privacy, outdoor access, good acoustics - can make a huge difference,” Steve notes. “Thoughtful design reduces stress and helps people feel genuinely at home.”
These principles are reflected across the development, from sensitive landscaping to easy access to communal facilities and neighbourhood amenities.
More Than a Planning Milestone
The War Rooms’ approval represents a commitment to creating homes that support, empower and bring long-term value to the people of Nottingham. It shows how social housing, when approached with empathy and rigour, can strengthen communities and honour the places they grow from.
As Steve puts it:
“Social housing is fundamental to our towns and cities. Designing it well means investing in people - and in the future of our communities.”
At CPMG, we remain committed to shaping environments where everyone can thrive, guided by sustainable thinking, respect for heritage and a belief in the power of well-considered design.
