Leeds shopping centre redevelopment set to get the go-ahead

Plans to redevelop a Leeds shopping centre to create a mixed-use development of commercial units and student accommodation will go before councillors next week (14 March 2024) with a recommendation for approval.Applicants AFAS The Core Ltd and Fusion Global Management LLP submitted a full planning application to Leeds City Council last year 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 33,000 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.The application will go before the council’s City Plans Panel on 14 March and is recommended for approval, subject to conditions and the signing of a legal agreement, in an officer’s report prepared for the meeting.The report said: “The proposals represent an opportunity to reimagine a key site at the heart of the city’s prime shopping area. The redevelopment of an underused, inward looking and dated shopping centre to provide high quality design-led modern buildings will enhance the area bringing new life and vibrancy.”Generous new streets and spaces will provide east-west connectivity through the site along with new commercial opportunities in a vibrant proposition to reinvigorate and reimagine this central part of the historic city core.”There are noted to be some impacts on adjacent properties due to the increase in scale, however on balance it is considered that the development accords with the Development Plan as a whole.”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.