Plans lodged for Leeds shopping centre redevelopment

The proposed redevelopment of a Leeds shopping centre to create a mixed-use development of commercial units and student accommodation has moved forward with the submission of a planning application.Applicants AFAS The Core Ltd and Fusion Global Management LLP have submitted a full planning application to Leeds City Council for the redevelopment of the Core Shopping Centre on The Headrow.The centre, formerly known as the Headrow Shopping Centre, is located on the site of the former Schofields Department Store.A number of units are currently vacant, with other operators having confirmed their intention to leave at the end of their leases.Planning permission is sought for the demolition of the shopping centre and construction of a trio of new buildings, with the tallest measuring nine storeys.The proposed ‘Garnet Exchange’ development would comprise about 36,500 sq ft of commercial space on the ground floor, predominantly retail but also including cafe, restaurant and bar uses, as well as community facilities.Student accommodation would be provided in the upper floors, with a total of 807 bedrooms as well as communal areas.A planning statement submitted as part of the application said that “despite the loss of retail floor space resulting from the proposed development, this will be appropriately mitigated through the introduction of new streets and thus an increase in active frontages and improved public realm”.It added that the scheme would “extend the supply of student accommodation taking pressure off the need for private housing to be used”.Pre-application proposals were presented to the council’s City Plans Panel in May 2023. Members were supportive of the principle of the development but concerns were raised over the approach to servicing.