Aim to develop green energy centre as part of Eastgate Quarters project

The £600m retail-led Eastgate development, which is currently being considered by Leeds City Council, will transform the 6.9 hectare brownfield site, most of which has been empty for the past four decades, creating some 4,000 new jobs in the process.

The LCEC, which will be based on Bridge Street, aims to generate sustainable, low carbon heating, cooling and power required by the scheme and neighbouring homes and businesses. Designed by ACME, it would enable neighbouring sites and buildings to connect to a community heating and power network, which will be compatible with many forms of renewable energy.

Heat and energy generated in the process will be fed back to provide heating and cooling, to new and existing developments in the local area. This heat will be supplemented by additional on-site production using biomass and renewable fuels.

Developer Hammerson said it could reduce carbon emissions for the development and surrounding area by 25-30 per cent.

Joe Swindells, development manager for Hammerson, said: “The addition of a Low Carbon Energy Centre should be a welcome sight in the city centre, not only is the building design a great compliment to the proposed Eastgate scheme, it will benefit the surrounding area and community whilst helping Leeds City Council meet its aims to see a 60 per cent reduction in emissions by 2020.”

Plans for the Eastgate scheme include a two-level shopping arcade, a new civic square, the largest shopper car park in the city and offices. It will have about 130 new stores, anchored by John Lewis and Marks & Spencer. Hammerson’s green leases will be introduced with tenants, working towards energy efficiency, waste reduction and greener shop fits.