Plans submitted for redevelopment of one of Leeds city centre’s oldest streets

A planning application has been submitted for the transformation of one of Leeds city centre’s oldest streets.

The application comprises a comprehensive mixed-use scheme for 101/104 Kirkgate and the Crown Street Car Park.

This completes a series of planning applications by site owner Cityfusion Limited for what is the largest landholding within the Lower Kirkgate area.

Designed by architectural practice, Think Architecture, the 100,000 sq ft scheme features “Crown Square”, 80 new build apartments in four buildings, a new public square between the Corn Exchange and the First White Cloth Hall and a new pedestrianised street, featuring retail and leisure space for independent businesses.

The scheme is designed to integrate with the planning consent for the restoration of 83/89/91 & 97 Kirkgate obtained by Cityfusion earlier in the year, which comprises the restoration of the Crown & Fleece public house and the restoration of First White Cloth Hall, being undertaken by Rushbond.

This site completes the pedestrian linkages between Leeds Waterfront, Kirkgate Market, the Victoria Gate, Trinity and Corn Exchange shopping centres and Leeds bus and railway stations.

Paul Nathan-Geary of Geary & Associates, advising Cityfusion, said: “The site is steeped in history and the proposals blend complimentary and sensitively designed new build space into the historic grain of restored heritage buildings.

“The site is the original home of Leeds commerce and the mercantile classes and the re-introduction of high quality residential accommodation into the heart of this site will ensure Crown Square and Kirkgate once again becomes the city living location of choice.

“Residents and local businesses will have the benefit of a secure privately managed estate, gardens and public realm, on the doorstep of the Corn Exchange, Leeds Markets, Leeds Minster and the Arts District as well as an array of on-site services, including a community pub infamous for the mystery of the “Kirkgate Skulls”!”

Planning consent is anticipated in the New Year with construction commencing during 2018.