Former Majestyk nightclub building set for rebirth

A YORKSHIRE landmark leisure venue could become a music venue with bars and restaurants under plans submitted by its owner, property development and investment company Rushbond.

Plans for the former Majestyk nightclub,  close to Leeds train station, are for it to be renovated as a basement music venue with bars and restaurant above.

Rushbond said it was in talks with several national operators interested in being part of the venue.

The plans also seek to let in natural light, as it is currently bricked up, and allow people in the upper floors to look out across City Square.

The building was most recently operated as the Majestyk nightclub, with six bars and space for 3,000 occupants, until its closure in 2006. Rushbond acquired the landmark building in August.

Rushbond Group managing director, Jonathan Maud, said: “This is one of Leeds most significant and attractive landmark buildings, playing a major role in Leeds prestigious City Square and heralding what was then a thriving industrial city to arriving rail visitors.

“Our plans, for a sensitive and high-quality restoration, aim to give the property, which is probably the best leisure venue in Leeds 1, but has lain dormant since 2006, a new lease of life.

“They will also give it a wider appeal by extending the leisure offer in Leeds city centre for local people and visitors. If supported, our plans will dramatically enhance the building’s appearance and visual impact upon City Square and Wellington Street and create a positive new vitality in the area.”

The building originally opened in the 1920s as a 2,400 seat cinema, with a basement restaurant, The cinema closed in 1969 and became a Bingo hall which eventually closed and made way for Majestyk.

The plans have been submitted to Leeds City Council.