Plans approved for major student accommodation scheme in Leeds city centre

Plans have now been approved to build a new 180 bed student accommodation scheme on Blenheim Walk close to Leeds city centre’s main university campuses.

Developed by York-based S Harrison, the scheme will feature ‘state-of-the-art’ accommodation with 180 en-suite bedrooms spread across 29 cluster apartments.

There will also be a range of communal facilities including a reception area, study rooms, games area and common room. Externally there is a large, green courtyard area, and cycle parking.

The seven storey building will be located between Leeds College of Art and Leeds Student Medical Practice, replacing an existing office building that is part occupied by Rex Procter & Partners.

The firm of construction consultants, which has a team of 25 in its Leeds office, is planning to expand into new city centre premises during March 2017.

Gavin Douglas, design manager from S Harrison, said: “Securing planning permission for this scheme will enable us to create a standout development that is within a few minutes walk of both the University of Leeds and Leeds Beckett University.

“This new building will complement the modern design of the proposed extension to Leeds College of Art and sit comfortably alongside Leeds Student Medical Practice, to create a landmark development on one of the main routes into the city centre.

“We plan to start work in April 2017 and the development should complete in time for the start of the 2018/19 academic year.”

Andrew Cooper, managing director at Rex Procter & Partners, added: “We’ve been at our current Leeds address for the last 23 years and whilst it’s been a great base for us, the location is ideal for this type of purpose built student accommodation scheme.

“As a result, the development will make way for us to relocate into Leeds city centre, near the railway station and close to many of our clients and other property professionals who we work with on a daily basis, which makes it an exciting opportunity.”