Ambitious development at Kirkstall Forge unveiled

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Plans for a major mixed-used development at Kirkstall Forge, Leeds, have been announced at MIPIM 2010. The development, by developer Commercial Estates Group will be one of the most ambitious schemes in Leeds’ development pipeline.

The masterplan to regenerate the former industrial site has been created by RIBA Sterling award-winning architects Feilden Clegg Bradley and will include family homes and 300,000 sq ft of commercial office space on the 56-acre site.

Kirkstall Forge, along with the Leeds Arena, redevelopment of Tower Works by Yorkshire Forward, Bradford’s City Park and the Galpharm Stadium in Huddersfield is just one of a number of flagship development projects and commercial opportunities being promoted by members of the ‘Leeds City Region’ partnership at the annual property fair in Cannes.

Kirkstall Forge is one of the oldest industrial sites in the country and the largest brownfield mixed-use scheme underway in Leeds. Sustainability has been the driving factor in the development and CEG has provided £4 million towards the delivery of a new railway station and, in conjunction with Metro, are committed to opening this by December 2012.

CEG has recently announced its aim to achieve a BREEAM Excellent rating on the commercial buildings and is offering a bespoke lease and design package which allows tenants to tailor the building and lease terms to their individual needs.

Charles Johnson, Development Manager of CEG explained: “Once the railway station is operational, Kirkstall Forge will be only a six minute journey from Leeds city centre. This, together with the riverside frontage and facilities such as a gym, crèche, hotel, restaurants and bars makes it an ideal location for business, which will be showcased at the MIPIM international property event.

“There is over 400 years’ of industrial history here and it’s important that we use this setting, the woodland landscape and waterfront and also provide a variety of modern facilities in order to create a unique commercial environment. MIPIM is the ideal platform to promote this exciting new development to potential occupiers.”

Anne Staton, Leeds City Council's business investment manager said: "Kirkstall Forge is a great location offering public and private sector occupiers a high quality alternative to a city centre location. It is a major development, which will be served by excellent transport links, and has the potential to attract significant inward investment to the city."

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