‘Iconic’ Leeds city centre landmark sold with plans for redevelopment to follow

Following a high-profile marketing campaign and competitive bidding, Lambert Smith Hampton (LSH) has concluded the sale of the ‘iconic’, Grade II listed, Oxford Place former Methodist Mission in Leeds city centre’s Civic Quarter.

With a history dating back to the early 1800s, the former chapel extends to over 33,000 sq ft and provides an opportunity for expansion and development. It is located on Westgate, immediately adjacent to the world-famous Grade I Listed Leeds Town Hall.

Planning consent had been granted for two different boutique hotel schemes, but the purchaser is likely to pursue a residential scheme. The property has been acquired by Samara Properties Ltd, a Leeds-based investor and developer with several completed schemes around The Headrow and Westgate/Park Square areas of Leeds city centre.

Richard Corby, Senior Director & Head of Leeds Office at Lambert Smith Hampton, commented: “We are excited to have disposed of this outstanding opportunity to acquire a striking, large and historic city centre asset with significant redevelopment potential.

“The regeneration of Oxford Place will provide a scheme of huge benefit to both Leeds city centre and the public realm.”

Harry Albazie, Director at Samara Properties, added: “We are thrilled to embark on the redevelopment journey of Oxford Place, an iconic Grade II listed building in the heart of Leeds. The potential for residential development aligns with our commitment to thoughtful urban renewal contributing to the city’s vibrant landscape”.

LSH acted on behalf of the Managing Trustees of the Methodist Church. Revd Kerry Tankard, Chair of the Yorkshire West Methodist District, said: “Oxford Place served Methodism in Leeds City Centre for over 185 years. It provided a space for worship, social engagement and enterprise, advice, and counselling.

“However, the changing needs of the city, and the work of Methodism, mean that it is the right time to let go of this building and instead invest the resources in our work through Leeds Sanctuary, the new shape of the Methodist Church in Leeds City Centre.

“Through Leeds Sanctuary we create spaces of hospitality, wellbeing, activism and craftivism, and enable people to think differently about their faith. Oxford Place was an important part of who we were, and it will help us as we move forward in the great city of Leeds.”

By Matthew Neville – Senior Correspondent, Bdaily

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