Former Leeds spinning mills set for £50m residential transformation

The former Hunslet and Victoria flax spinning mills in Leeds, which have remained derelict for over 40 years, are set to undergo a £50m transformation.

Purchased by property developer JM Construction (Leeds) Ltd for an undisclosed sum, the 3.1 acre site on Goodman Street in Hunslet will see over 300 apartments built as part of the development proposals.

The Victoria Riverside Apartments scheme will comprise a mix of one, two and three bedroom apartments, over five existing mill buildings, with plans to develop two new build buildings and will incorporate high specification rooftop penthouses.

The plans also include a convenience store to increase the general amenities available to residents within the Hunslet Riverside area.

John Mulleady, managing director of JM Construction (Leeds) Ltd, said: “Victoria Riverside Apartments is an exciting and ambitious project which will bring much needed residential accommodation to a part of Leeds which benefits from easy access to the city centre and also the motorway network.”

The Grade II listed mills, which have stood empty since the early 1970’s, were once earmarked for demolition.

Engineer William Fairbairn constructed Hunslet Mill for John Wilkinson in 1842 who employed 1500 female workers as flax spinners. The mills were finally vacated 40 years ago by tool making firm RH Bruce.

Cllr Richard Lewis, Leeds City Council executive member for regeneration, transport and planning, said: “The council has been working hard to find a solution for the Grade II and II Listed Hunslet and Victoria Mills given their historical significance and deteriorating condition.

“The council is delighted that JM Construction has been able to acquire the buildings and we will continue to work with them to ensure that a refurbishment scheme can progress quickly, delivering much-needed new housing which contributes to the growth of the city centre and supports the wider regeneration of the Hunslet Riverside area.”

Kerry Babington of Historic England added: “It is wonderful news that JM Construction has seen the potential of this iconic textile mill to produce new distinctive and characterful homes.

“Hunslet Mill has been a derelict Building at Risk for decades, but more and more developers are seizing the opportunities which restoration and reuse can bring.”

Work has now commenced on site and the phased delivery plan is expected to take four years to complete.

JM Construction was advised by Gordons solicitors and Beckwith Design Associates is designing the scheme.

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