Regeneration plans for landmark city eyesore
ONE of Leeds's biggest eyesores is to be radically redeveloped to provide 21st century office accommodation.
City House, which has provided an unwelcome first impression for commuters driving into Leeds or exiting the city's railway station for years, was built in the 1960s and was formally occupied by the Department of Transport.
Kenmore Property Group has submitted a planning application for the redevelopment of City House, which is situated directly above Leeds train station.
The commercial property investment and development company, which bought the building in 2006, said the redevelopment would come at a time when there was an under supply of office space in Leeds city centre.
If planning permission is granted, Kenmore intends to start work in the autumn and aims to complete the project by summer 2009.
Kenmore has appointed Carey Jones Architects as principal architect on the project alongside structural and environmental engineers, Arup. Property company Savills has been appointed as project managers and CB Richard Ellis and Ryden have both been appointed as agents.
More than 130,000 sq ft of grade A office space across 12 floors will become available to let either as a whole or in part and parking for approximately 79 vehicles will be available.
The entire building is to be re-clad with a full height glazed curtain walling. The plan will also improve the entrance and aims to improve the view of the city's landscape for visitors approaching it from all directions.
James Scott, associate director of Kenmore Property Group, said: 'We are delighted to submit plans to transform City House into what will become one of the best and most prominent office developments within Leeds City Centre.
“Kenmore has a successful track record in revitalising sites and schemes in locations with a thriving economy and Leeds is certainly no exception being one of the main centres for businesses in the North.”
Duncan Senior, of CB Richard Ellis, said: “City House will deliver against a significant under supply of grade A office accommodation in the city centre offering fully flexible, first class space to potential tenants.
“Each floor is divisible to suit a range of occupier requirements, and its central location on the city's main transport interchange, offers unrivalled access and amenities. Due to the high number of enquires already being received we are urging interested parties to act quickly so not to miss out on this rare opportunity.”
Matthew Edwards, regional managing partner of Ryden in Leeds, said: “City House will be transformed to once again present an exceptional landmark building for Leeds, and in turn provide ideal office space for both large corporates and smaller indigenous companies in a location that is unbeatable for staff accessibility.”
