32-storey tower scheme set for green light

Proposals for a 300-bed residential development in Leeds, which would regenerate a number of historic buildings and feature a new 32-storey tower, are set to take a step forward after being recommended for approval.The site at Silver Street in Holbeck Urban Village features a number of grade II-listed properties known as Midland Mills, which date back to the early 1800s.Plans were filed by CityLife and Nick Brown Architects, supported by ID Planning, in July 2018.It is proposed that the historic buildings are converted to provide 22 apartments and about 4,750 sq ft of commercial space.Midland Tower would feature 284 apartments, comprising a mix of studio flats, one-bed apartments, two-bed units and three-bed flats.The development could also feature a communal gym, residents’ lounge and cinema room.The scheme is set to go before Leeds City Council’s planning committee next week (24 January 2019).Planning officers have recommended the committee defers and delegates the application to the chief planning officer for approval, subject to the completion of a section 106 agreement.The section 106 would secure employment opportunities for local people, as well as affordable housing and financial contributions towards the likes of travel and traffic regulation.It is also recommended that Midland Tower is not occupied until the listed buildings at the site are regenerated.