Leeds brownfield site to be redeveloped into one of the country’s largest free schools

After a property deal was struck by national building consultants JLL, a former brownfield site in south Leeds is set to become the location of one of the largest free schools in England.

The 4.2 acre site on Black Bull Street, previously occupied by Yorkshire Chemicals, was acquired by JLL for an undisclosed amount from Yorkshire Design Group.

The building consultancy firm was acting on behalf of the Education Funding Agency (EFA) during the deal process.

Set to open in September 2016, building works on the £25m school are due to start in the not too distant future.

The Ruth gorse Academy, which is temporarily located within the grounds of The Morley Academy, will accommodate up to 1,580 students (11-18 years).

The former brownfield site, where the new Academy will be built, has strategic importance as it is located near the new Leeds City College and the Leeds College of Building facilities, which forms part of the city’s growing education quarter.

Henry Burton, senior consultant in JLL’s Leeds Development team, said: “This acquisition is a sign of the EFA’s continued commitment to improve the standards of education across England, providing funding to proposed schools backed by Trusts who have a proven track record in providing the highest quality education in areas of serious need.”

Leeds Sustainable Development group are fully supportive of the development of the new academy as it is a major step forward towards towards the progression of family living in Leeds city centre.