Planned logistics scheme has potential to create another 1,700 jobs

Proposals to develop a strategic 60-acre site in East Leeds have moved a step closer following its confirmed allocation into the Leeds Site Allocation Plan (SAP) for major employment use.

The site, known locally as Brown Moor, is next to the Thorpe Park Leeds business destination and The Springs retail and leisure centre.

Last year, property regeneration and placemaking business, Scarborough Group International (SGI) tabled proposals to develop the site for a new employment park, submitting an outline planning application for up to 596,500sq ft of purpose-built accommodation.

“Integral”, as the proposed development has been named, aims to deliver a range of buildings suitable for companies of different sizes within the advanced manufacturing, logistics and industrial sectors, with the potential to support around 1,700 new jobs.

The scheme will retain most of the established woodland and hedgerows across the site, while adding to these with new green spaces and landscaping corridors.

Adam Varley, development director at SGI, said: “We see this as a key strategic site to allow the expansion of Thorpe Park Leeds and our development proposals support the continued growth of the park and future diversifying the mix of employment opportunities generating major economic benefits for the region.

“The logistics sector is one of the fastest growing areas of employment in the UK and our plans and proposals for the scheme  will deliver against a tight supply of prime space within West Yorkshire designed to cater for sustainable business practice as well as attracting exceptional talent.”

SGI says it has already identified strong interest from potential occupier interest for Integral.

It hopes to be able to submit a detailed planning application for the first phase of development in the second half of the year, upon determination of the current outline application.