£80m plans to revive historic city centre site take major step forward

PLANS FOR the £80m transformation of a landmark site in Leeds have taken a significant step forward.

Construction firm Carillion was yesterday named as the preferred development partner for the scheme at Tower Works, in Holbeck’s so-called ‘urban village’.

Work on the project – which will include 112,000 sq ft of office, retail, restaurant and bar space as well as 147 residential units – is due to begin in January next year.

Gareth Jackson, development director at Carillion Develop- ments, said: “Our masterplan proposals respectfully emulate the urban grain of Holbeck urban village whilst delivering a unique place making proposition of spacious canal side residential accommodation and commercial office spaces supported by complementary café bars and restaurants in an exciting part of Leeds city centre.”

The section of the one-time pin factory being developed by Carillion is owned by the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA).

Another part of Tower Works has already been turned into of- fices used by a range of creative and digital firms.

The site’s famed Italianate towers and its Grade II listed Engine House building, meanwhile, remain owned by Leeds City Council.

HCA executive director Naz Parkar said: “[This] announcement marks the start of our partnership with Carillion, who will turn this empty space into a vibrant destination, with 147 homes, shops, restaurants and places to work, creating an important link between Holbeck and Leeds city centre.”