22-storey build-to-rent development set for approval

Plans for a 22-storey build-to-rent (BTR) development in Leeds city centre featuring almost 350 flats looks set to get the green light from councillors at a meeting next week (10 October 2019).Court Collaboration submitted an application to Leeds City Council earlier this year for a site off Marsh Lane, Saxton Lane and Flax Place.Planning permission is sought for two buildings, the tallest of which would stand at 22 storeys with the second measuring between six and 18 storeys.A total of 349 BTR flats would be created, with a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom units, as well as residents’ facilities including a ground floor community hub.The scheme includes 53 car and 15 motorcycle parking spaces in a basement car park, along with 353 cycle spaces.It has been estimated the two-year building programme would support the creation of up to 190 (FTE) jobs and generate construction value of £48m.The application will be discussed by the council’s City Plans Panel on 10 October and is recommended for approval, subject to completion of a Section 106 agreement, in a planning officer’s report prepared for the meeting.Court Collaboration previously presented pre-application proposals for the scheme at a council meeting in September 2018. Committee members were supportive of the scheme, but called for a 5 per cent affordable housing provision should be provided on-site.The site was formerly occupied by Alton Cars and has most recently been in use as a church.