Estate owner pulls plug on controversial Leeds housing development

As previously reported by the Yorkshire Evening Post, the Rockspring Hanover Property Unit Trust has been seeking permission for the development at its Thorp Arch Estate. It has now announced that it has scrapped the proposal – but also says it is looking into the feasibility of a smaller-scale residential scheme with the help of property firm St Congar Land.

In a statement, Rockspring said: “The Rockspring Hanover Property Unit Trust has withdrawn its current outline planning application for 2,000 homes at the Thorp Arch Estate.

“Rockspring remains confident in its vision for the future development of the site, to deliver a thriving residential community in which people can live and work. To this end it has appointed St Congar Land to review options for a smaller scale proposal on the site.

“As new proposals are developed, St Congar will be engaging with local residents and stakeholders for feedback and views.”

A wide range of businesses, including large PLCs and start-ups, are already situated on the two million sq ft Thorp Arch Estate.

Rockspring’s 2,000-home scheme faced opposition from residents in nearby Thorp Arch village.