A BICYCLE factory which built some of the original Coventry cycles could be converted into flats.
Coventry council has approved plans to renovate the Challenge Cycle works on Foleshill Road.
The historic buildings would have 24 apartments, with some shared ‘living and working’ areas.
If work goes ahead, developers say they would demolish workshops currently onsite for parking, and improve the original brickwork.
The Challenge Cycle works was built in 1903, by London-born engineer Edward Salmon O’Brien, during the early development of Foleshill’s industry.
It stood next to a Standard Motors factory and close to weaving mills.
Developers hope to extend the factory upwards with an extra storeyz
Architects Callingham Associates say designs fit ‘respectfully to the existing building, whilst aiming to modernise the property to create a welcoming living environment.’
A section 106 agreement, which levies developer funds for the community, has agreed the NHS will receive £38,967 towards acute and emergency care and £101,645 to local schools.
The building is in the Coventry canal conservation area, which would have brought it to planning committee had it been meeting.
Throughout the early part of the 20th century, Challenge alternated between building pedal cycles and motorbikes. Its successor Coventry Ensign Cycles was wound up in 1949.
Current tenants of the factory site include the Blakenhall Gun Club, a self-storage centre and a tyre shop.
