Derelict Leeds mills to undergo £50m revamp
Two former Leeds spinning mills are set to undergo a £50m transformation after remaining derelict for 40 years.
The grade II-listed former Hunslet and Victoria flax spinning mills are set in a 3.1 acre site on Goodman Street in Hunslet, which has been acquired by Leeds developer JM Construction for an undisclosed sum.
Initially built in 1842 by William Fairbairn for John Wilkinson, who employed 1,500 female workers as flax spinners. They have stood empty since the 1970s when tool manufacturer RH Bruce moved out, and were earmarked for demolition.
JM Construction will build 300 apartments as part of the proposals for Victoria Riverside Apartments.
They will be a mix of one, two and three bedroom apartments over five existing mill buildings. The plans also include two new-builds with high-spec penthouses.
The plans also include a convenience store to increase the general amenities available to residents within the Hunslet Riverside area.
John Mulleady, managing director of JM Construction (Leeds) Ltd, said: ‘Victoria Riverside Apartments is an exciting and ambitious project which will bring much needed residential accommodation to a part of Leeds which benefits from easy access to the city centre and also the motorway network.’
Leeds City Council executive member for regeneration, transport and planning Cllr Richard Lewis said: “The council has been working hard to find a solution for the Grade II and II*-listed Hunslet and Victoria Mills given their historical significance and deteriorating condition.
“The council is delighted that JM Construction has been able to acquire the buildings and we will continue to work with them to ensure that a refurbishment scheme can progress quickly, delivering much-needed new housing which contributes to the growth of the city centre and supports the wider regeneration of the Hunslet Riverside area.”
Kerry Babington of Historic England added: ‘It is wonderful news that JM Construction has seen the potential of this iconic textile mill to produce new distinctive and characterful homes. Hunslet Mill has been a derelict Building at Risk for decades, but more and more developers are seizing the opportunities which restoration and reuse can bring.’
Work has now commenced on site and the phased delivery plan is expected to take four years to complete.
JM Construction specialises in conversion projects and has recently completed the redevelopment of the former Tate Cars headquarters on New York Road in Leeds city centre into 74 contemporary apartments which have all been sold.
The company was advised by Gordons solicitors and Beckwith Design Associates is designing the scheme. Agents will be confirmed shortly.
