Archaeological and enabling works have already commenced with the PfP igloo scheme expected to be complete by Autumn 2021.
Ironworks will be a key part of Holbeck Urban Village in the emerging South Bank of Leeds. Once the crucible of the Industrial Revolution in the city, the area is graced by significant landmarks of heritage architecture. Now a hub for Leeds’s creative and digital businesses, as well as an established and diverse scene of independent food and drink businesses, Ironworks marks a new phase in the area as a place to live, as well as to work and play.
The mixed-use development will see the waste land off David Street transformed into 53 apartments, 15 town houses, two commercial units, complete with an under-croft car park and has an approximate build cost of £12million, partially funded by Homes England.
Stuart Leslie, Divisional Director of Esh Build in Yorkshire, said: “We are very proud to have been appointed as principal contractor to deliver such an exciting scheme. Esh Construction, Igloo Regeneration and Places for People hope this scheme will encourage further residential developments and unlock the area’s potential.”
Designed by Leeds company Nick Brown Architects Ltd, the Ironworks project covers a 0.35hectare site. The apartments and townhouses are arranged within a ‘mill’ building, with ‘chimneys’ concealing lift shafts and ventilation. The homes will be clustered around a private landscaped garden and courtyard, which will be used to ingeniously hide the car parking beneath and ensure that there is active frontage on all sides.
The already award-winning scheme (Housing Design Awards 2019*) sees a return for Igloo to Holbeck Urban Village which was crowned the UK and Ireland’s ‘Best Neighbourhood’ at the 2015 Urbanism Awards. The Ironworks is located within Leeds’s South Bank, one of the largest city centre regeneration initiatives in Europe, which is set to double the size of Leeds city centre.
As part of the scheme, Esh is placing emphasis on social value, including STEM sessions within local schools, work experience placements, local employment and procurement. An extensive archaeological dig took place before works began.
Mr Leslie added: “We understand that when we undergo major redevelopments in an urban environment, we must focus on ensuring minimal disruption for both residents and businesses. However, we know that we can also provide a lot of social value as part of the work and are pleased to be able to support the local economy and give back to the community in more ways than simply the end build product.”
This project will breathe new life into a fantastic part of the city and will provide Places for People with an outstanding space. We know that this area is already loved by the creative and tech workforce and now it’s going to be a place where more people can put down roots, building an attractive community and neighbourhood in an important area of Leeds.”
