Leeds City Council has received plans to build 230 new co-living homes at 42 The Headrow in the city center.
Watkin Jones Group, a developer, builder, and third-party manager specializing in new homes for rent across the UK and Ireland, has submitted proposals for the former Direct Line HQ building. Self-contained studio apartments with living, cooking, and en-suite facilities are being proposed. The building will include common areas for residents to meet, relax, and socialize.
The design will repurpose the existing building while retaining its façade. They will have new carbon reduction technology that addresses the climate emergency. Thus, it reduces energy bills and achieves BREEAM Excellent energy efficiency status.
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Remarks on the construction of the new co-living homes at 42 The Headrow in Leeds city
“We received positive and constructive feedback on our proposals. This happened when we met with the public and local stakeholders in the summer,” said Emer Green, senior planner at Watkin Jones Group.
“Co-living is a successful concept in a growing number of major UK cities. However, it is new to Leeds. We do thank everyone who participated in the consultation and welcome the feedback.
As a result of the feedback we received, we made a number of positive changes to our plans. These include more space for residents to use, a covered atrium area for year-round relaxation, an on-site gym, and larger studio sizes.
We recognize the importance of getting this right as a new component of the housing mix. Consequently, we will be respecting the building’s prominence and location on the Headrow.”
More on the project
Watkin Jones Group is a new rental home developer, builder, and third-party operator with extensive experience adding long-term value to communities.
If the redevelopment is accepted, the co-living homes at 42 The Headrow will also have concierge services on-site. This is as well as landscaped roof terraces with more space for people to work, meet, and exercise.
Turley, SWAP architects, and Social Communications have all worked together to assist Watkin Jones with the plans.
