Consultation launched on mixed-use Holbeck development

A public consultation has been launched on plans for a mixed-use redevelopment of the former Kays Catalogue warehouse site in Holbeck to create new apartments, offices, commercial space and public realm.Developers Westrock and Platform_ are seeking feedback on their plans, which include about 1,200 build-to-rent and market sale apartments spread across six new buildings ranging in height from ten to 27 storeys.Platform_ purchased the eight-acre site fronting Sweet Street West from Burberry in 2021. Since then, it has been working with a Leeds-based team to develop a masterplan featuring a combination of BTR and private sale residential, alongside new purpose-built office buildings, commercial spaces and amenities and extensive new public realm.The plans include a network of new public squares and spaces designed to provide a fitting setting to historic buildings such as the Commercial pub and the former Holbeck public library.Platform_ plans to retain and refurbish the Commercial pub, which was once owned by Leeds United legend Peter Lorimer and was the first office of the Associated Society of Locomotive Engineers and Firemen, and to return it to active use through a new food and drink offering.The developer has now launched a public consultation to share its proposals with members of the local community, both to seek feedback on the emerging scheme and to ask for ideas to help steer some of the key aspects of the plans.Pre-application proposals for the development were presented to Leeds City Council’s City Plans Panel last month (January 2022).The project team includes DLG Architects (Masterplanners) LDA Design (Landscape Architecture) and Zerum (Planning Consultant).