Leonardo Building.
Leonardo building in Leeds. Photograph: Stephen Richards/Geograph.

Developer unveils plans to transform trio of Leeds local authority buildings into hotels and offices

Idé Real Estate is preparing plans to redevelop three former local authority buildings in Leeds city centre into hotels, office building and public spaces.

The London-based property developer said it wants to create a “welcoming place for people to work, play and visit.”

The regeneration project aims to deliver two new hotels, serviced Grade A offices and public space in one of Europe’s largest urban healthcare and education campuses.

Idé is drafting a full planning application for the conversion, extension and refurbishment of three Grade II-listed buildings - Leonardo Building, Thoresby Building and Great George Street Building - and the development of a new building on an existing car park.

The proposals will convert the Great George Street Building into a hotel. The roof will be extended with additional floors to include publicly accessible restaurants with views of the city.

The Leonardo and Thoresby buildings will be consolidated, connected and extended at roof level to provide office accommodation. Idé is working with stakeholders in the city’s Innovation District to develop serviced space to support startups and scaleups.

The proposals also include a lifestyle hotel, a new building which the firm says will be designed to respect and enhance the heritage of the Victorian surroundings.

Ronan Faherty, chief executive of Idé, said: “We are very excited to be in Leeds, a growing city with a proactive council and opportunities for everyone. We see the Innovation District with its anchor institutions as a big catalyst for inclusive growth in the new knowledge economy.

“We are working with stakeholders to create a sustainable development with enough critical mass to attract new businesses, investors and visitors.”

Idé will propose public space which fits in with neighbouring areas like Millennium Square.

The scheme was discussed at the council’s city plans panel as part of the pre-application process on Thursday (May 10th).

Afterwards, Mr Faherty commented: “We welcome the feedback. We will address all concerns and issues. That’s why you have the pre-application process. We truly believe in our scheme and the value it will bring to Leeds. It is all about getting the right scheme for the city.”

Idé Real Estate is hosting a public consultation day on May 23 from 3-7.30pm and welcomes any feedback on its proposals.

Our Partners