Redevelopment of '˜eyesore' site in Leeds gets go-ahead

Plans for the redevelopment of a key gateway site on the edge of Leeds city centre have been given the green light.
An image of how the new development will look.An image of how the new development will look.
An image of how the new development will look.

The 2.5-acre site at the junction of Regent Street and Skinner Lane in Mabgate was once occupied by a Reg Vardy Renault car dealership.

It has fallen into a state of disrepair in recent years and is regarded as something of an eyesore on one of the main routes to the city’s new Victoria Gate retail scheme.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Now, however, developers at Leeds-based Gregory Property Group have won full approval for their plans to breathe fresh life into the site.

It will become home to a 16,500 sq ft Aldi store and a 7,500 sq ft Poundworld Retail outlet as well as a 24-hour Pure Gym facility.

Construction is due to start in May and it is hoped work will be completed by Christmas. Gregory Property Group chairman Barry Gregory said: “The arrival of three quality tenants is excellent and welcome news for the local community which has always supported the venture.

“The site has been vacant since September 2008 and become a major eyesore. Recently it has been of concern to [Leeds City Council] on account of anti-social behaviour.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“It has been a testing and arduous process securing consent for what we believe to be the best use for the site, endorsed by the public.

“We are much relieved and aim to begin construction after Easter subject to completing our funding arrangements which are in hand.

“This scheme will transform the immediate area and enhance the approach to Victoria Gate.

“From a trading viewpoint Aldi, Poundworld and Pure Gym should all benefit from the area’s population growth with 72,000 residents living within a five minute drive time.”

Gregory Property Group’s previous schemes include the Springfield House building on Wellington Street in the city centre and the £40m Broad Plaza development in Halifax.

Related topics: