Retail plans for former Leeds Debenhams approved

Plans for the redevelopment of the former Debenhams in Leeds city centre, which propose continuing to use the listed building as a department store, have been given the go-ahead.Frasers Group, supported by Jigsaw Planning and HCUK Group, submitted full planning and listed building applications to Leeds City Council earlier this year for the grade II-listed building on Briggate.The retail group is seeking approval to convert the building into a flagship Flannels store, trading from all six levels.The plans include a gym at lower ground level, with food and beverage offerings at ground and fourth floor levels.Proposals also include external repairs and decoration works and the introduction of new internal and externally mounted security shutters.The council has now granted planning permission for the works, subject to conditions, under delegated powers.A planning officer’s report accompanying the decision said: “This proposal retains the building in primarily retail use, it is considered an important building on the main shopping street in Leeds. There are significant associated economic benefits for the vitality and viability of Leeds’ shopping quarter and this proposal will contribute to the vibrancy of the city centre.”There are considered to be also benefits associated with bringing a vacant grade II-listed building back into use and safeguarding its future. There are also associated repairs which will benefit the special interest of the building.”Planning permission was previously granted in 2021 for the conversion and extension of the former Debenhams department store to create new commercial units and student accommodation.