Proposed 411-bed Leeds student flats development to include art space and studios

The plans, for a site off Whitelock Street in Sheepscar, include 105 flats to accommodate 411 students, as well as cycle storage and car parking.

The designs, submitted by developer Alumno, also include gallery and studio space to be managed by East St. Arts, with commissioned public artworks integrated into public and outdoor student areas.

Such a development on the site would involve demolishing the existing Diamond House, Britannia House and Caroline House.

A design and access statement provided with the application by developers states: “The proposed development provides a high-quality, contemporary

residential development and environment for students studying in Leeds. It is in a highly sustainable location within easy reach of the city centre and educational institutions, local shops and services accessed via the pedestrian and cycle networks.

“The development will help trigger the activation and regeneration of a run-down and neglected part of Leeds, in a prime location just beyond the city centre. The building will enhance the arterial approach to the city along the A61 and compliment the emerging context of high quality residential blocks to the south. The massing and scale respond to and are sympathetic to the immediate, emerging, and wider context.

“The scheme will add great economic value as PBSH reduces the strain on local housing for the residents of Leeds, whilst creating a valuable source of revenue to local businesses. The inclusion of artist studios and commissioned public art will also increase placemaking within the area through forming sustainable links to the local art group East St Arts.”

Developers also claim the site would include laundry, garden, cinema and gym facilities.

A decision on the planning application is set to be made in the coming weeks.