Spring start for £80m Leeds scheme

Carillion has won planning permission for its £80m Tower Works mixed-used scheme on Leeds’ South Bank, and will start construction in late Spring.

The Jestico + Whiles-designed scheme comprises 145,000 sq ft of residential, 90,000 sq ft of commercial office space and 16,000 sq ft for retail outlets, bars and restaurants.

Carillion was first appointed development partner on the scheme last March and signed a contract with the Homes and Communities Agency.

DBK is project manager, while WSP Parsons Brinckerhoff is engineering consultant.

Carillion is delivering the project for the Homes and Communities Agency. The one hectare brownfield site houses three grade-two listed Italianate Towers, which give the project its name.

Tower Works was originally a card clothing pin works in the 1860s, which closed in 1978.

Gareth Jackson, development director for Carillion, said: “The team worked closely with the council to ensure that the design response not only builds on the heritage and character of the area, but meets the needs of the people who will live and work at Tower Works.

“Half the development site is given over to pedestrian and public space, so it will play a vital role in the connection of Holbeck Urban Village to the centre of Leeds and future transport hubs.”

Councillor James McKenna said: “The redevelopment of the Tower Works site will create a dynamic new hub for businesses, residents, visitors and shoppers which will be a cornerstone in the regeneration of the whole area.

“Above all it is important to us to see this site protected and preserved as well as securing its future and maximising its enormous potential.”