Plans approved for 407-bed student residential complex

Planning consent has been secured the construction of a 407-bed student residential development in Leeds.

The one-acre site, located adjacent to Kirkstall Road on Bingley Street, is currently occupied by Maxi’s Chinese restaurant which intends to move to alternative premises.

Gregory Property Group, which was given planning consent from Leeds City Council, plans to demolish the existing building and deliver The Refinery, an 11-storey purpose-built complex with communal social facilities for students.

Barry Gregory of Gregory Property Group said: “We are delighted to secure planning consent to redevelop Maxi’s and create a key gateway site into Leeds city centre.

“The appetite for high quality student accommodation continues to grow apace with Leeds being one of the top ten university destinations in the UK. With a growing student population of around 60,000 students in the city there remains sustainable demand for which we plan to deliver a scheme of exceptional quality.”

Architecture and building consultancy firm AHR has designed the scheme.

Gurminder Sanghera, regional director at AHR, added: “We are delighted that The Refinery has secured planning permission. The student accommodation will provide high-quality student living that creates a sense of home, supports socialising and enables them to build new friendships.

“We look forward to continuing our work on this project with Gregory Property Group and delivering upon our shared vision”.

Gregory Property Group is aiming to start construction on site in February 2019 with anticipated completed by mid-Summer 2020.

Cushman Wakefield’s Manchester office and Michael Leonard of Carisbrooke Estates acted on behalf of Gregory Property Group in the acquisition of the site.

Russell Hefferan of Cushman Wakefield added: “We are thrilled to have been part of the team that has secured planning permission for The Refinery. It will fit perfectly with the surrounding Purpose Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) stock.

“This is a very exciting time for student accommodation in Leeds. There is a strong student population that is set for further growth over the forthcoming years. With Leeds rental growth outperforming the national average this is a clear indication there continues to be a need for PBSA in established student locations that are within easy walking distance to the Universities and the city centre.”