We are pleased to report works are progressing well on our student residential scheme at the former Debenhams department store in Leeds with the scheme now having received full planning permission. The scheme was commended by Leeds City Council planning officers as a high quality, appropriate development which would bring active use to an important historic building, adding to the vibrancy and vitality to the area.
The CJCT designed scheme for our client Orchard Street Investment Management plans to repurpose the existing department store building by converting the upper floors into 124 premium student beds with flexible commercial use across basement, ground and 1st floor levels. The proposal includes a new high quality rooftop extension which has been designed to replicate the existing 1930’s curtain wall profile below and is sympathetic to the appearance of the building and Conservation Area.
Within the building a number of shared amenity spaces will be created which promote wellness and sustainability initiatives. These include an internal courtyard garden, sky lounge and roof-top terrace with views out over the city.
Initial strip out works are now complete and we look forward to continue working with the design team to give this iconic City centre building a new lease of life.
