£20m city centre construction project completes

Practical completion of “one of the most logistically challenging” construction jobs has now been signed off, just over two years after the build commenced.

Bruntwood’s Platform building, which dominates the Leeds skyline above the train station, only touches the ground in three locations and the re-development of the 13 storey building – previously City House – proved testing at times.

A wing inside Platform

The £20m construction project, which excludes the acquisition of the site and associated fees, is already seeing businesses let space within it. Craig Burrow, Leeds director for Bruntwood said: “This is by far one of the most logistically challenging construction jobs we have ever had to deal with. The building only touches the ground in three locations.

“Because of its position on New Station Street, the phasing of the demolition was challenging. One lane of New Station Street also had to be closed.”

He added that it was essential to work with all stakeholders, including National Rail, Leeds City Council and the public, for the building and furnishing to take place – as everything had to be done through the front entrance next to the train station.

Co-working space

In addition to this, the main contractor went into administration last September, delaying progress for a month. Burrows added: “That was catastrophic at the time, knowing how long it had taken for us to get on site. So we made the decision to take on six guys from the contractors and finish the building as Bruntwood construction. That was a fairly unique way of doing things.

“It then meant that I was seeing the build through the eyes of both the developer and the contractor. I got to see that there were challenges with the supply chain, for example. It was interesting and a challenge at the same time.”

Roof terrace at Platform

Burrow added that the market had received the building well and that lettings were looking positive. He said that there was definitely room in the market for the extra office space it provides for Leeds; with law firm Shoosmiths taking up at least two wings of the building – with their fit out taking place this week and a move anticipated in the New Year.

The building boasts 13 floors of suite space, a roof terrace, central court, event space and board rooms. Serviced office spaces will be available for businesses from two people upwards and there will also be a tech-hub.

Burrow added that co-working spaces were instrumental to the design and that the idea was to nurture businesses to grow through the building. The spaces allow for networking and for start-ups to take up space on a flexible basis.

Corridor and light installation at the front of the building

Public art also features in and around the building, with Bruntwood collaborating with East Street Arts for the largest mural in the UK to feature on the side of the building. A light installation also appears on the front of the building.

And why the name Platform? Burrow said: “Re-naming the building was one of the hardest parts because it’s so subjective. We wanted a name that reflected the ambition of the building. Some people thought it was a play on it being above the station but actually it’s named Platform because we want it to be a platform for businesses to grow. It is also about growing the sense of community inside the building too. It does also fit nicely with being above the train station’s platforms too.”

Who will be in Platform?

Berwins

Innovative law firm Berwins has moved the Leeds offices of its digital arm to Platform development.

The move comes as the division, which supports businesses on matters from data protection to contract negotiation, enjoys a period of sustained growth.

Senior Partner and Head of Digital, Paul Berwin said: “There is a very real and growing vibrancy around the Leeds digital community, which is having a positive effect on the economy of both the city and the wider region.

“Our move to Platform – one of the most exciting, innovative workplaces in our region – is a reflection of our sustained focus on operating at the cutting edge of new and emerging movements.”

LightStart

Digital design firm LightStart were the first the first tech business to move into tech-hub within Platform.

LightStart’s new base at Platform provides workspace and agile meeting space for its six-strong team.

Founder Simon Edwards said: “We are very excited to be the first tech business moving into Platform. There is a lot of buzz about the building throughout the city and it will be a great place from which to grow the business.”

LightStart specialises in building digital products including mobile and web apps and has grown its client base significantly since it was founded 15 months ago.