Developer looks to complete Aire Park vision
Vastint UK has submitted plans for the final phase within the 24-acre mixed-use masterplan for the district on Leeds’ South Bank.
Aiming to transform a brownfield site into a new destination area for the city, the developer’s plans for the second phase feature 502 homes, including affordable housing, more than 20,000 sq ft of flexible ground floor leisure space, and a 353-space multi storey car park.
A consultation was carried out in April.
The application also details the final part of the development’s eight-acre park. Designed by landscape architect Planit, the park as a whole will introduce 700 new trees and dedicated areas for residents as well as public exercise routes and flexible spaces for outdoor events.
Situated south of Crown Point Road and bordered by Black Bull Street and the A61, phase two of the masterplan connects the South Bank to the city centre and Leeds Dock.
Alongside the new buildings will be a refurbished and revitalised Crown pub & hotel, which was originally built in the late 19th century, then closed towards the end of the 20th century.
The venue, now owned by Vastint, was granted planning permission for a change of use and extension to create new commercial space in 2019, which will open out onto the second phase of the park.
This application comes after the developer recently submitted its proposals for the Tetley building, which will see the refurbishment and extension of the 92-year-old art deco building, where Kirkstall Brewery is now operating an F&B offer.
Simon Schofield, head of development North at Vastint UK, said: “We always envisioned and masterplanned Aire Park in its entirety. As work continues on the first phase of this landmark development and we prepare for the completion of 1 & 3 South Brook Street and open of the first pieces of public realm, Tetley Triangle, Tetley Green and Theatre Gardens, we’re pleased to be moving forward with our vision and plan for this second and final phase of Aire Park.
“The plans in their entirety aim to breathe new life into the Leeds South Bank and create new opportunities for people to live, work and enjoy this part of the city.
“Throughout the delivery of Aire Park, we are focusing on cultivating an accessible and welcoming environment, these plans show how we will use the new public park to not only promote active travel but create much needed new greenspace within this part of the city for everyone to enjoy whilst also providing a boost to biodiversity.”
The eight-acre park is designed by Planit. Credit: via Aberfield
Michael Westlake, director at Supervene Architects added: “We have been working on this project since 2016 so submitting the final phase to the masterplan is a fantastic moment for us.
“Aire Park supports the Southbank vision for Leeds, providing new connections to improve the quality of access through the city centre and the communities to the south. Aire Park is in the process of transforming this former industrial site into an exciting new part of Leeds City Centre.”
Turley provided planning, strategic communications, EIA and townscape and landscape services.
Director Taylor Cherrett said: “This development is set to transform Leeds’ South Bank, creating vibrant new spaces for living, working and leisure, whilst enhancing the city’s green infrastructure to deliver a thriving neighbourhood.”
Once completed Aire Park will include 1,400 homes, and more than 1m sq ft of mixed-use office, retail, leisure and commercial space.
- Read Place Yorkshire’s Q&A with Vastint UK’s Simon Schofield
