Plans for a co-living development in Leeds city centre have gained eminent support.
- Leeds City Council’s planning department endorses the Headrow House project.
- The initiative will consist of 230 homes with shared amenities.
- Environmental and communal benefits receive praise from local organisations.
- The project aims to retain young professionals and graduates within the city.
The proposed Headrow House project, situated in the heart of Leeds city centre, has obtained a recommendation for approval from the planning department of Leeds City Council. This initiative, which is to be developed by Watkin Jones, seeks to create a ‘co-living’ environment by providing 230 new homes. These will include both private studio spaces and areas designed for shared activities among residents.
In line with previous successful ventures in Bristol and Exeter, the Headrow House development marks Watkin Jones’ inaugural co-living project in Leeds. The scheme prioritises modern living requirements, featuring private units equipped with cooking and en-suite facilities, complemented by communal spaces intended for social interaction and relaxation. A verdict on the project’s approval is anticipated in the subsequent week.
Aimed primarily at graduates and young professionals, Headrow House is expected to contribute significantly to Leeds by offering quality living spaces that foster community and collaboration. The Leeds Civic Trust has expressed support for this approach, particularly applauding the environmental advantages that result from refurbishing an existing building rather than constructing anew.
Director of Leeds Civic Trust, Martin Hamilton, highlighted the dual benefits of the project: “Leeds Civic Trust supports re-use and adaptation as a means of bringing new life to buildings and the carbon savings that result. We support this proposal for Headrow House which for the first time brings co-living into the city centre.” This statement underscores the project’s alignment with sustainability objectives and its role in addressing the housing needs of a dynamic segment of the population.
The planning director at Watkin Jones, Iain Smith, conveyed his optimism regarding the support received from various stakeholders, including local businesses. “We have been strongly encouraged by the support that we have received for our Headrow House co-living plans, including that of Leeds Civic Trust and local businesses. Co-living will address an important residential need in Leeds, helping to retain more graduates and young professionals in the city.” He further elaborated on the importance of feedback from planning officers, which has been instrumental in refining the project to better serve its future residents.
The Headrow House co-living project not only promises significant environmental and community benefits but also aims to support Leeds’ growing demographic of young professionals, pending final approval.
