Public realm improvements for industrial heritage site
The Round Foundry and Marshall’s Mill estate in south Leeds is being given a new lease of life as work starts on a programme of landscape improvements to the heritage area.
Comprised of a mix of historic mill buildings and contemporary spaces, the Mill and Foundry estate has today become associated with independent, creative and digital businesses.
The improvements aim to create a more cohesive sense of identity across the sites, preserving the area’s history as well as supporting the business and community space it has now become.
Designed by Planit IE, which specialises in enhancing outdoor spaces for communities, the new space will feature reclaimed Yorkshire stone, timber benches and communal seating spots, alongside more trees and green spaces.
New lighting, signage and better access routes will also create a more cohesive neighbourhood.
The planned works are due for completion in December.
Lisa Riley, events co-ordinator at The Round Foundry and Marshall’s Mill estate, said: “The Mill and Foundry estate is a wonderful mix of buildings and open spaces, rooted in historic 18th century industry and now acting as a thriving modern business space.
“However, we saw further ways to support the area. Working with Planit IE, we considered how people intuitively use the site, thinking where they go, where they might like to go, and how to make those walking routes and lunchtime spots more useable.
“Adding more green spaces and places to sit outside creates a more organic environment, supporting the day-to-day wellbeing of businesses’ employees and creating a welcoming space for the wider community as well.”
