A significant new housing project in Leeds city centre has been backed by city planners.
- 230 homes are set to be developed by Watkin Jones at Headrow House, Leeds.
- The project aims to blend private and communal living spaces for young professionals and graduates.
- Key improvements influenced by feedback include enlarged rooms and enhanced communal areas.
- Leeds Civic Trust supports the project’s focus on environmental benefits and revitalisation.
Leeds City Council’s planning department has given a positive recommendation for a proposed 230-home co-living development at Headrow House, situated in the heart of Leeds city centre. This initiative marks Watkin Jones’ inaugural co-living project within Leeds, intending to attract graduates and young professionals by offering studio spaces equipped with cooking and en-suite facilities, alongside shared communal areas. The development aims to emulate successful schemes already carried out by the developer in Bristol and Exeter, with a final decision on approval expected imminently.
The Headrow House scheme is primarily targeted at graduates and young professionals, offering a blend of private and communal living spaces designed to foster a sense of community. This aligns with Leeds Civic Trust’s vision, which advocates for the adaptive reuse of buildings to bolster urban environmental benefits. Martin Hamilton, Director of Leeds Civic Trust, expressed support, highlighting that this model could enhance the city centre’s residential offerings, thereby helping to retain skilled individuals in Leeds.
Feedback from planning officers and other stakeholders has resulted in significant improvements to the initial Headrow House proposal. Notably, Watkin Jones has increased the size of individual rooms and expanded both internal and external communal areas. This response to feedback underscores the developer’s commitment to aligning with community needs and expectations, which reflects positively in the planning department’s recommendation for approval.
Iain Smith, Planning Director at Watkin Jones, acknowledged the substantial support from key entities such as Leeds Civic Trust and local businesses. According to Smith, the development not only addresses a significant residential demand in Leeds but also represents a model of sustainable building practices by refurbishing an existing structure. This undertaking aligns with Watkin Jones’ environmental, social, and governance (ESG) commitments.
The co-living model introduced by Watkin Jones at Headrow House is expected to provide a modern solution to urban living, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and community engagement. The planning department’s recommendation for approval highlights both the innovative nature of the project and its alignment with broader urban development goals. The council’s decision is awaited next week, which will determine the project’s future trajectory in reshaping city centre living.
The Headrow House project is poised to advance urban living in Leeds, pending council approval.
