Work starts on former paper mill site
WORK has begun on at a former paper mill site which is to be transformed into homes, offices and restaurants.
The Garnetts Wharfe site in Otley is one of the first in Leeds to receive funding from the Leeds City Region Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP).
Housebuilder David Wilson Homes, based in Leeds, will use the LEP’s Growing Places funding to enable demolition, remediation and infrastructure works at the derelict site.
Once completed, the development will transform the area delivering 194 homes, office space, hydro-electric power facilities, cafes and restaurants – together with improvements to public areas such as a new riverside walk and cycleway.
Ian Ruthven, managing director for David Wilson Homes Yorkshire West, said: “Garnetts Wharfe will be a major asset to the local community, in terms of providing employment, facilities and much needed new housing. We are delighted to have the funds in place to move this development forward.”
Neil McLean, chairman of the Leeds City Region LEP, said: “I am delighted that a loan from our Growing Places Fund has accelerated this project. Both short and long term jobs will be created and a derelict site will be improved. This supports the LEP’s ambitions to boost jobs and economic growth in the city region.”
