Boost for creative industries as Tower Works progresses

YORKSHIRE’S blossoming digital and new media industries have been given a further boost after it was announced that development work at a major regeneration scheme has commenced.

Around 18,000 sq ft of commercial space is to be created at historic Tower Works in Leeds.

A phase of demolition work has been carried out at the industrial heritage landmark, while the complex’s three existing chimney towers, which are listed, are being stabilised.

The redevelopment will create office accommodation to complement the Round Foundry Media Centre – the headquarters of TheBusinessDesk.com – at Holbeck Urban Village.

The future of the scheme had been cast into doubt because of cuts to public sector spending but those behind it have said the project will progress.

The current phase of work at Tower Works involves the stabilisation of one of the three chimneys and restoration and conversion of two listed buildings with new build elements, which will eventually provide serviced office accommodation and community space.

The complex comprises the three Italianate chimneys built around a former steel pin factory dating from 1864, which was owned by Colonel Thomas Harding.

The 2.83 acre site was acquired by regional development agency Yorkshire Forward in 2005.

Future phases at the site will include shops, bars and cafes at ground level and offices and residential apartments above. The total office space generated by the whole development is expected to be more than 110,000sq ft. 

The scheme will include 150 residential units and approximately 8,000 sq ft of retail or leisure space.

Future phases are likely to be delivered by a private developer.

Jan Anderson, executive director of environment at Yorkshire Forward, said: “When completed, Tower Works will contribute further to the vision for Holbeck Urban Village as an exemplar mixed-use development, setting standards in design, sustainability and place-making.

“It will improve connectivity between the city centre and strengthen the city’s offer as a competitive regional business centre and preserve the area’s unique character and architectural legacy.”

Yorkshire Forward has confirmed the appointment of Ilkley-based Quarmby Construction Company to undertake the restoration and redevelopment of the listed Tower Works at Holbeck Urban Village. Quarmby was a key player in the construction of redevelopment of the Round Foundry in 2005.

Managing director David Jones said: “Holbeck Urban Village is nationally recognised as an example of best practice in heritage restoration and sustainable development and we are particularly proud of our contribution there.

Project architect is Bauman Lyons, while other consultants have included EC Harris as project managers; Halcrow as civil engineers; Davis Langdon as quantity surveyors; Dean Knight Partnership as historic building consultant and Iain Bath Planning as planning consultants.

The current Phase of works is due for completion in March.

Tower Works’ distinctive towers, modelled on the Giotto tower in Florence and the Lamberti tower in Verona, have been landmarks on the city’s skyline since they were built and served as chimneys for the former pin factory at the site.

The third plain tower, built as part of Harding’s final phase of expansion in 1919, is thought to represent a Tuscan tower house.