Plans to deliver 230 sustainable new coliving homes in the city centre have been submitted to Leeds City Council. The proposed redevelopment of a landmark building to create innovative new homes on The Headrow will support the local economy, make it easier for people to find a place to rent, as well as revitalise a key part of the city centre.
The proposals for 42 The Headrow, the former Direct Line HQ building, are being brought forward by Watkin Jones Group, a developer, builder and third-party manager specialising in new homes for rent across the UK and Ireland.
230 self-contained studio apartments are proposed, each with their own living, cooking and en-suite facilities. The building will be designed with generous shared space for residents to meet, relax and socialise, reflecting the changes in people’s lifestyles.
The design will repurpose the existing building, maintaining its striking façade, with new carbon reduction technology that tackles the climate emergency, reduces energy bills and achieves BREEAM Excellent status for energy efficiency.
Emer Green, senior planner at Watkin Jones Group, said: “We received positive and constructive feedback on our proposals when we met with the public and local stakeholders in the summer. Coliving is a successful concept in a growing number of major UK cities but is new to Leeds and we are grateful to everyone that took part in the consultation and welcome the comments made.
“As a result of the feedback we received, a number of positive changes have been made to our plans, including an increase in space for residents to use, a covered atrium area to allow year-round relaxation, an on-site gym and an increase in studio sizes.
“We recognise the importance of getting this right, as a new element of the housing mix, and in respecting the prominence of the building and its siting on the Headrow. We are pleased to have submitted our proposals which we believe will meet the needs of an increasing number of people left behind by the traditional housing and rental markets.”
Watkin Jones Group is a specialist developer, builder and third-party operator of new rental homes with strong experience of adding long-term value to communities. The building would have professional management with on-site staff providing a concierge service. Communal activities will promote inclusivity and diversity whilst encouraging social interaction and resident wellbeing.
Landscaped roof terraces will provide views of the Leeds skyline for residents to relax in whilst providing additional space to work, meet, and exercise.
Specialist consultants including Turley, SWAP architects and Social Communications have collaborated to support Watkin Jones with the plans. A decision is expected on the proposals in early 2023.
