Go-ahead for £55m homes and leisure complex in Leeds's Granary Wharf

The blueprint to rejuvenate a site at Granary Wharf - which is currently used as a car park - includes 250 new homes, office space, bars, cafés, restaurants and landscaped public spaces.

Developers CTP and regeneration specialists U+I are bringing forward the expansive project as part of Leeds City Council’s wider Holbeck Urban Village regeneration vision to transform the area into a key destination for the city.

After the council’s most influential plans panel gave the green light to the projectearlier today (Thursday), it has been confirmed that work could start on site later this year, with completion in 2018.

David Topham, chief executive of CTP, said: “Granary Wharf is a vibrant hub in the heart of the city and our latest plans continue to build on its success.

“There is a growing demand for high quality accommodation in Leeds.

“We are obviously delighted that Leeds City Council has approved our plans and we look forward to playing a pivotal part in the regeneration of this important part of the city.”

Laurence Martin, director of projects at U+I, added: “Holbeck Urban Village has been identified by Leeds City Council as an area in need of major regeneration.

“Working in partnership with CTP, we are really pleased that plans for Granary Wharf have been approved to support the council’s aspirations of creating long-term economic growth and improvements for the area.”

The Granary Wharf site - located on Wharf Approach, off Water Lane - is currently being used as a car park and nestles alongside the Leeds and Liverpool Canal.

The new scheme will include a mix of one-bedroom, two-bedroom and three-bedroom apartments, as well as 9,000 sq. ft. of office space, parking spaces and cycle spaces. The bars, cafes and restaurants will be on the ground level.

A report considered by the decision-making panel has said: “It is considered that the proposed development would regenerate the site, with a high quality, appropriate development. It is also considered that the project would add vibrancy and vitality to the area and is recommended for approval.”

Mr Topham added: “The South Bank is currently one of the most dynamic parts of Leeds, with the impending arrival of Burberry, the regeneration of Tower Works and the tremendous success of the ground-breaking Round Foundry.

“The bar is very high and we will ensure that our new development meets the high standards set in South Bank and Holbeck Urban Village.”