Plans for hundreds more student beds at current House of Fraser site

A public consultation has been launched on draft plans for a mixed-use city centre development in Leeds to replace the current House of Fraser building at 140-142 Briggate.

Named ‘Grand Central Place’, after the Grand Central Hotel which occupied the site in the early 20th century, the scheme includes plans for nine-storeys of student accommodation above the ground and basement floors of retail.

Grand Central Place will deliver a renewed retail offer on Briggate, creating units of a size and standard which are designed to meet evolving shopping trends.

Approximately 35,200 sq ft of retail space will be created across the basement and ground floor with access from Briggate.

The student accommodation part of the project will provide 368 beds, comprising a mix of self-contained studios and cluster flats, across 177 units. Communal kitchens and shared living spaces will be provided throughout the building.

The proposed scheme has been brought forward by Dukelease, under its development brand, Manner. The property developer has more than 30 years’ experience delivering residential and mixed-use schemes.

Richard Leslie, CEO at Dukelease, said: “We are excited to be bringing forward our draft plans for Grand Central Place at 140-142 Briggate, which we hope will secure an active and vibrant future for this site in the heart of Leeds.

“University life can be stressful for many students, who are often living away from home for the first time and balancing the demands of their studies with busy social and work lives.

“It is vital students have a place to live where they can unwind, focus on their studies, and mostly importantly, feel safe.

“Our ambition is to deliver modern and comfortable student accommodation, which can be their ‘home away from home.’

“We will draw upon our 30 years’ of experience and work closely with stakeholders and local communities to create a scheme that the city will be proud of.

“We look forward to building strong ties with local residents through the public consultation and welcome all feedback as the plans come together.

“We were attracted to Leeds for this great city’s reputation for growth, ambition, and innovation – and with the regional and national attention now turning to the economic recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic, we’re looking forward to playing our part in helping the city centre bounce back.”

Members of the public can view the plans and have their say by visiting www.grandcentralbriggate.com

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