230 co-living homes approved for former insurance company HQ

Leeds City Council has approved plans for the conversion and repurposing of Headrow House at 42 The Headrow, Leeds, into 230 co-living homes.

It has consented to developer Watkin Jones’ plans for the vacant office block in Leeds city centre. The property was previously the Direct Line headquarters.

When completed in 2028, the project will deliver a supported communal living environment and will help address demand for rental accommodation that continues to outstrip supply in Leeds.

The scheme will retain retail units on the ground floor.

In  addition to the new homes, the redeveloped building will feature a gym, shared kitchens and dining areas, a cinema, co-working lounge, library, laundry room and bicycle parking along with personal storage rooms.

Iain Smith, planning director at Watkin Jones, said: “We are very excited to announce planning approval for Headrow House, our first co-living project in Leeds.

“Ranked the third largest city by population in the UK, Leeds is a vital commercial and residential centre, and we are committed to providing high-quality, sustainable co-living accommodation that will help to address the ongoing demand for rental homes in Leeds city centre.

“We look forward to continuing our collaborative efforts with Leeds City Council and our local communities to address this growing demand, while also supporting our ESG targets as a business.”