Vastint UK has submitted a planning application for the final masterplan phase of the 24-acre Aire Park mixed-use district on Leeds’ South Bank.
The developer’s plans for the brownfield site comprises 502 high-quality homes – including affordable housing – as well as more than 20,000 sq ft of flexible, ground floor space for leisure use and a new 353-space multi-storey car park.
The application also includes a new green park designed by landscape architects Planit that will feature 700 new trees and provide dedicated areas for residents as well as public exercise routes and flexible spaces for outdoor events.
The application comes after Vastint recently submitted proposals for the refurbishment and extension of the iconic art deco Tetley building.
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, [and] these plans show how we will use the new public park to not only promote active travel but create much needed new green space within this part of the city for everyone to enjoy whilst also providing a boost to biodiversity.”
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 South Bank 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.”
Taylor Cherrett, director at Turley, said: “We are proud to support Vastint UK in bringing their vision for Aire Park to life, reflecting Leeds’ strategic goals and community aspirations, alongside ensuring the development is truly a part of the fabric of the city. 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 comprise 1,400 modern homes, and more than 1m sq ft of office, retail, leisure and commercial space, anchored around an 8-acre public park with the refurbished Tetley building at its heart.
