Eastgate masterplan could mean 1,000 new homes for Leeds City Centre

Early plans to build a so-called “phase two” of Victoria Gate – which could include up to 1,000 new city centre homes – are set to go before Leeds City Council planning chiefs next month.
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A masterplan and design brief for the redevelopment of the so-called Eastgate Quarter, which developers say could include homes, leisure and public spaces, will be discussed by members of the city plans panel.

The site is circled by the Inner Ring Road, Bridge Street, Eastgate and Vicar Lane. While most of the land is covered by car parking, it also includes three and four-storey buildings.

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Previous proposals, known as Victoria Gate Phase 2, were for a major retail development but “considerable work” has been undertaken by the developers to “analyse changes in the development market” since the original Victoria Gate project was completed.

The nearby statue of Arthur Aaron at the bottom of Eastgate.The nearby statue of Arthur Aaron at the bottom of Eastgate.
The nearby statue of Arthur Aaron at the bottom of Eastgate.

They concluded the plans should now include residential and office uses, with only some leisure and retail.

It is also proposed to retain listed buildings on the site.

A document submitted by the developers states: “Initial design studies have indicated that the site is capable of delivering approximately 185,000 square metres of development which could include (but not be limited to) circa 1,000 homes, 47,000sq metres of office space and 18,500 square metres of retail and leisure uses in addition to student accommodation, a hotel, an educational facility and public open space.

“The residential development within the site should include a mix of tenure and type and provide affordable housing consistent with the adopted planning policies. It should also ensure that the housing provided accords with the accessible homes and space standards. Private amenity space should be provided for the enjoyment of residents.

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“New areas of public open space should be provided with green infrastructure incorporated. Landscaping should be suitable for and contribute towards the surrounding environment with appropriate tree and plant species chosen to create a warm and tranquil environment, absorb carbon emissions and be easily maintained.”

A document from Leeds City Council planning officers states: “The Masterplan sets clear principles to ensure opportunities to create a vibrant, well planned, cohesive destination at the Eastgate Quarter (Phase 2) site, complementing recent nearby developments and allowing for the creation of substantial new public spaces.

“The development following on from the clear guidance and principles set out on the Masterplan and laid down in the Planning Brief would support appropriate sustainable growth in Leeds City Centre, creating new jobs and contributing towards the economic growth of Leeds.”

More detailed plans are expected to be submitted to Leeds City Council in the coming months.