Plans lodged to transform landmark city centre office block

A planning application has been submitted to rejuvenate a landmark office building in Leeds city centre.

Palace Capital plc has put forward plans to transform Bank House on King Street, upgrading the existing office space and adding a complementary three storey extension to the top of the building.

Once completed, over 110,000 sq ft (net) of carbon neutral office space will be created.

The formation of a new eight storey atrium is central to the proposals and is intended to serve as a dramatic circulation space at the building’s heart.

The existing property is let on short term leases, but will not meet new and emerging Government sustainable regulations in the future if no changes are made.

Bank House was purpose built for the Bank of England between 1969-1971 and was given Grade II listed status in 2015.

Architect Fuse Studios has redesigned the building to create a more active street frontage and a rooftop extension which complements the existing façades.

Richard Starr, executive property director of Palace Capital plc, said: “We are very excited to be able to transform this iconic building and make it fit for the future, whilst retaining and safeguarding the key elements that make it a Leeds City Centre landmark.

“Our objective is to create Grade A office space and continue the ongoing renaissance of the city centre by targeting a range of occupiers that demand the highest standards in sustainability and working environment.”