New block of council flats in north Leeds could address homes shortage, plans revealed
A new block of council flats could help address a chronic need for affordable housing in north Leeds.
Leeds City Council is seeking to build 21 homes on a vacant plot of land on Queenswood Drive in Kirkstall.
It would see the redevelopment of a site previously occupied by Beckett Park Community Centre and the Queenswood Day Care Centre.
A design report said: “The day centre was closed in 2013 and both buildings were demolished in 2023. The site is currently vacant following demolition.”
One and two-bed rented flats would be created in the development at the junction with Spen Lane.
The council said more than 25,000 people were on its housing waiting list and 22 per cent were in the most urgent need.
The Kirkstall project was part of plans to build around 800 homes per year under the Leeds Affordable Housing Growth Partnership.
The report said: “To achieve this, the council is actively building new homes and working to bring private empty properties back into use to meet the demand.”
Fifteen parking spaces would be provided for tenants in the new block, each with electric vehicle charging points. Bicycles would be stored in separate self-contained building.
Consultation papers were delivered to nearby homes to seek feedback on the proposals and two public events were held at Kirkstall Educational Cricket Club.
Concerns raised included traffic, loss of privacy if the new block overlooked nearby homes, and the impact on wildlife.
The report said: “Public consultation and pre-application feedback played a key role in shaping the proposals”
A full planning application is out for consultation until December 16.