Member Article

Leeds Central Square sets bar for commercial developments

CAPITAL: (L-R) Freddie Whitehead, Wates; Joe Barnes, WSP; Kyle Smith, Wates; David Lingard, Wates and Phil Thompson, Wates

LEEDS’ CENTRAL SQUARE SETS THE BAR FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT

Roydhouse Properties and Marrico LLP’s flagship Central Square office development has been hailed as a model of best practice in commercial building following a site tour for the Forum for the Built Environment (FBE).

Main contractor, Wates Construction, opened its doors at the Wellington Street site to showcase its work on the new mixed-use development – the first speculative office scheme in Leeds for eight years.

Delegates were given an overview of the site, where the Wates team are currently erecting the building’s steel frame ahead of schedule. The contractor also shared its Building Information Modelling (BIM) strategy for the project, which is being utilised to forward-plan mechanical and electrical installations.

The event (14 May) was delivered in partnership with engineering consultants, WSP who are carrying out multi-disciplinary engineering services on the project. It forms part of the FBE’s efforts to share best practice and engage property and construction professionals in issues facing the industry.

Wates began construction work at Central Square in June last year following its appointment to the project in May. Designed by DLA Design, the 11-storey scheme comprises flexible Grade A office space and retail and leisure provision.

Completion of the development is expected early 2016 and will also see the creation of 128 car parking spaces, accessible public thoroughfares, a ninth floor sky garden with city views, a central atrium and winter garden.

Paul Dodsworth, Business Unit Director, Wates Construction Yorkshire & North East, commented: “Central Square is a prime city-centre development and as such, its construction poses a number of challenges for our team. In overcoming these, we have a wealth of best practice to share with the industry and the FBE provides a valuable forum in which we can do this.

“This development is set to really raise the bar for speculative office space in Leeds and our innovative approaches to its construction are a true reflection of the high quality that Marrico LLP and Roydhouse Properties aim to deliver for the city.”

David Hill, Technical Director, WSP Leeds, added: “We have been involved with this site for 12 years, applying our world class expertise in commercial and retail buildings to advise on the various engineering and environmental challenges of delivering this exciting development. To date, we have provided civil and structural engineering, geotechnical, highways and vertical transportation services.”

Mark Barnes of Marrico LLP said: “This will be the highest quality scheme in Leeds for over 10 years and will bring London quality to a regional market and we are all delighted to be part of this excellent project.”

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