Montpellier submits plans for Leeds scheme
Montpellier Estates has submitted a new planning application for its 10 acre City One site at the southern entrance to Leeds.
The investment and development company’s application is for a 2 million sq ft mixed use development and will include grade A office space, residential and retail units, restaurants, a hotel and ‘large casino’ – as defined in recent gambling legislation..
The site was shortlisted for the proposed Leeds arena in 2008 but Leeds City Council controversially terminated the procurement process in November 2008, appointing itself as the arena developer on council-owned land at Claypit Lane.
Jan Fletcher, chairman of Montpellier Estates, said: “City One is widely acknowledged as one of the most strategic and prestigious city centre development sites in the North of England. Even through the downturn it has generated interest and we’ve continued to invest. There are encouraging signs of improvement in occupier sentiment and the site is ‘oven ready’ as the economy picks up.
“The site’s strength lies in its location, just off the motorways and walking distance from Leeds City station. Our vision is to create a spectacular entrance and skyline from the city’s southern gateway. ”
Montpellier’s site will help Leeds City Council to achieve its regeneration plans, by linking Holbeck and Beeston to the city centre. City One has a series of inter-connecting urban public spaces linking communities in the south to Holbeck Urban Village and the city centre.
Outline planning permission was granted in 2006 for a mixed use development including a conference centre, ‘regional’ casino, hotel, residential and commercial office accommodation.
