£10m student scheme set for approval

Plans for a £10m student housing scheme in central Leeds have been recommended for approval. The application relates to a site off Burley Street on the fringe of the city centre.Acting on behalf of Burley Place, Indigo Planning is seeking approval for a development of 87 self -contained studio flats, a retail unit, second floor communal roof garden and associated landscaping and car parking.The scheme, which would rise to eight storeys, replaces an earlier “over-intensive” development rejected in 2015.According to a report to be scrutinised by councillors this week, the proposal, designed by West + Machell Architects, has the potential to enhance the character of the surrounding area by regenerating a derelict brownfield site that has been vacant for many years.The size of the studio flats, although not spacious in all cases, is considered acceptable given the standard of amenity for occupiers when the communal space is factored in.A small retail premises is also expected to contribute positively to Burley Street.The application is recommended for approval subject to a section 106 agreement and specified conditions.