Plans for Majestic site in Leeds take step in the right direction

The Yorkshire Evening Post revealed at the end of June that property firm Rushbond was looking to transform the historic site into stylish offices.

Now a planning application seeking formal permission for the six-storey scheme has been submitted to Leeds City Council.

Rushbond director Mark Finch said: “We have been really pleased with the positive response we have had to date to the plans, which has encouraged us to forge ahead and submit the detailed applications.

“The proposals will bring the building back into life, with new and sustainable uses, that can contribute to the economic prosperity of the city centre for generations to come.”

If the scheme gets the green light, the City Square-based site will become a 65,000 sq ft office development crowned by an eye-catching new roof.

The ground floor could house leisure or café facilities while visitors will be greeted by a grand three-storey-high foyer space.

A supporting document lodged on Rushbond’s behalf as part of the application reveals that turning the building into a hotel or using it for residential purposes were both considered but ultimately rejected.

Mr Finch has said market changes mean an office development is now the most commercially-viable option for the site.

Fire ripped through the Majestic on the evening of September 30, 2014 – soon after Rushbond had completed a renovation with a view to letting it as a leisure destination.

At the height of the blaze, nearly 80 firefighters were involved in the battle to save the Grade II-listed landmark, which dates back to the 1920s and has had spells as a cinema, bingo hall and nightclub.

Comments on the new planning application should be submitted to the council by Friday, September 23.