Member Article

£40 million student accommodation scheme approved in Leeds

Plans for the construction of £40 million accommodation on the former St Michael’s college building and old police depot site in Little Woodhouse have been approved by planning chiefs.

The scheme, by the Watkins Jones Group, will provide three new buildings comprising of student accommodation (320 bedspaces), key worker accommodation (259 units) and 61 open market apartments on land at St John’s Road and Belle Vue Road.

All existing buildings on the former police station depot and St Michael’s College site would be demolished except the original 1908 element of the college which would be retained and refurbished to form part of the proposed keyworker accommodation.

The council has also approved development of approximately 70 homes on land near Calverley Lane, Farsley and the ring road, and proposals for 160 apartments, office space and car parking spaces and at 2 Skinner Lane, Leeds.

Councillor Peter Gruen, executive board member with responsibility for neighbourhoods, planning and support services, said: “It’s welcoming to see a range of housing development coming forward to meet the growing demand in our city, particularly significant investment targeting affordable, quality homes for key workers.

“The investment in construction and support offered for local employment during the works is also welcome.”

Councillor Jim McKenna, chair of City Centre Plans Panel, said: “We’re pleased that the developer has taken on board the comments we’ve made during the planning process.Today’s application is much improved and more acceptable.

“It’s good to see this vacant brownfield site being revitalised with a positive future after suffering from anti-social behaviour. The mix of residential types proposed will help provide a sustainable community.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Clare Burnett .