Forshaw Groups Largest Development to Date for 504 homes in Leeds

Leeds City Council has received the plans for New Foundry Square, a £100m project. The 1.4-hectare brownfield site on which the development is planned sits just west of Leeds city center, between Kirkstall Road and the Leeds-Liverpool Canal. This development lies in the Kirkstall Road Renaissance Area, providing easy access to the city center on foot or by bike. It is also an essential part of the continuing revival this lively neighborhood is experiencing.

The Renaissance area in Leeds is known as a regeneration area and encompasses the Renaissance Art institute, and is a hub for media and arts organisations such as the BBC and Northern Ballet in the City Centre.

Architecture and Design

The development, designed by Ollier Smurthwaite Architects of Manchester, will comprise one, two and three-bedroom residences. The architectural philosophy favours conscientious, quality design that resonates with a modern lifestyle within the context of the regions’ industrial history. The buildings will feature contemporary design alongside local heritage, taking cues from historic warehouses and mills.

There are two main zones on the site:

• Frontage along Kirkstall Road: Buildings ranging from 6 to 12 storeys
• Courtyard zone to the rear: Buildings of 5 to 6 storeys

The ground floor will feature a mix of amenities, retail space and parking with residential units on the upper floors.

Landscaping is a major focus of the plan, with greenery around the site, a central public square and tree-lined streets.

Amenities for Intergenerational Living

Designed as a residential blend to attract young professionals, growing families and empty nesters, New Foundry Square seeks to encourage a thriving multi-generational community. The development has:

• 49 apartments with three bedrooms
• 236 one-bedroom apartments
• 219 two-bedroom apartments

The application includes an affordable housing statement to ensure inclusivity and accessibility, stating that 7% of all units will be affordable homes.

There are fantastic amenities available to residents for relaxation, health, and a communal feeling. These consist of:

• Gym, sauna and swimming pool
• Resident lounges and co-working spaces
• Nine small, independent stores where you can shop locally
• Games room and movie lounge
• Private dining
• 24-hour concierge service

Outdoor amenities including plazas, play spaces, and planted gardens will further enliven the area.

Sustainable Travel

New Foundry Squares vision embraces safe and sustainable movement with a major neighbourhood street that will link Kirkstall Road and the River Aire – a key east-west active travel corridor. A new green pedestrian link with trees and play boundary will make a safe and enjoyable place to walk through the development.

Motorists will enjoy easy access to the immediate surrounding area thanks to a two-way car connection from Viaduct Road. Additionally, the development will offer over 500 secure bike parking spaces, and 126 car spaces with electric charging capabilities.

Lyndon Forshaw (Forshaw Groups CEO) commented: “New Foundry Square represents a bold new chapter for Kirkstall Road. It is a key opportunity to transform a disused site into a thriving new neighbourhood for all generations. We’re committed to creating a place that reflects the rich history of Leeds while setting a new standard for modern city living.”