Lead contractor revealed for major city centre development
Construction and engineering firm Sir Robert McAlpine has been appointed as lead contractor to build the Tower Works scheme in Globe Road, Leeds City Centre.
The business was chosen by Richardson and Ask Real Estate following submission of a planning application earlier this month.
The delivery team also includes: engineering firm WSP; Ryder Architecture which has designed the 245-unit build to rent development and project managers Faithful and Gould.
The historic Tower Works site will deliver two new residential buildings providing one, two and three-bedroom and duplex apartments to the south of Leeds Railway Station.
Ground floor commercial uses will be created, as well as extensive areas of public realm to enable a pedestrian route through from the city centre to Holbeck Urban Village neighbourhood.
Mark Gibson, managing director for the Scotland and Northern Region at Sir Robert McAlpine, said: “We are thrilled to be appointed as lead contractor on Tower Works for Richardson.
“We are already involved in the regeneration of the South Bank with the adjacent Mustard Wharf development, and this scheme is an exciting addition.
“The team looks forward to starting construction on site and continuing to work with the skilled local workforce.”
Ben Holmes, real estate director for Richardson, said: “The early appointment of Sir Robert McAlpine as main contractor demonstrates our clear intention to make an immediate start on site following the determination of planning.
“Not only are they one of the leading construction companies with a solid track record but they are already active in Leeds on a neighbouring site and they have the team, skills and equipment in place to start on site straight away.”
Gareth Callen, partner at Ryder Architecture, added: “It is great to have reached the milestone of main contractor appointment and we are delighted to be involved in such a landmark development.
“Tower Works is a unique setting – our concept designs respect the context and environment of the listed towers by combining the classical proportions of the towers with the rigour of Leeds’ industrial heritage.
“Giotto, Verona and Little Chimney are celebrated and framed with a backdrop of residential buildings creating positive public spaces for the enjoyment of all.”
Tower Works is part of the wider South Bank regeneration programme as WSP Technical Director, David Hill explained. He said: “WSP has been privileged to be involved in Tower Works from the beginning and it’s great to see the scheme progressing.
“The development is not only helping to reinvent a key landmark for Leeds, but is a crucial element that will anchor the wider regeneration of the South Bank.”
