Monkbridge Forge Tower

Doncasters Ltd has plans to close its Monkbridge Forge factory in Whitehall Road later this year. It will seek planning permission for a total of 11 buildings. The tallest of these will be a 38 storey tower. A 20 storey building also features in the plans.

The majority of the scheme will be residential and the rest will be offices, light industrial, bars and restaurants. An island between the Leeds-Liverpool Canal and River Aire may also be made into a park

Data

No. of floors - 38
Height - 118m
Building type - Office & Residential
Year of construction -
Architect -
Location - Whitehall Road, Leeds City Centre

Found the thread at last - twas at the bottom of the Leeds thread! Hurrah.

This was the front page of last weeks Property Week. Same site is it not?

Dutch plan £150m Leeds leviathan

UK arm HBG Properties cashes in on northern renaissance with 500,000 sq ft offices scheme


04.11.2005

By Molly Dover, Sean McAllister

Dutch-owned developer hbg properties is planning one of the north of England’s biggest development projects: a 500,000 sq ft (46,450 sq m) mixed-use scheme in Leeds.

HBG, which is part of the £5.1bn Royal BAM Group, has acquired a 9.5 acre (3.8 ha) development site less than a kilometre to the south-west of Leeds city centre from engineering company Doncasters for £19.25m.

The commercial element alone is expected to be worth £150m. The site already has outline planning consent for a mixed-use scheme but HBG will submit a revised application to increase the office element to more than 500,000 sq ft (46,450 sq m). The scheme will also feature 300 homes, as well as shops on the ground floor.

HBG’s plans have been unveiled at a time of growing prosperity for development across the north, in part encouraged by the government’s Northern Way regeneration initiative.

Leeds is seeking to reassert its authority as an office location, as Manchester has won most of corporate relocations in the north of England in recent years.

Ian Pennington, director of HBG Properties, said: ‘Leeds is the fastest-growing city in the UK. We expect it to continue to grow and take-up to rise year by year. The Leeds property market is one of the most resilient in the country.’

The project will be aimed at law firms, accountants and government tenants.

HBG plans to develop the commercial space in four or five phases but will sell the residential development site once a masterplan is agreed and outline planning consent has been granted.

The developer plans to start work on the commercial element by the middle of next year and the first phase of offices is scheduled to come to the market in autumn 2007.

HBG has invited four architects – Aedas Architects, Allies & Morrison, Edaw and Make – to compete to produce a masterplan.

The site is just outside Leeds city centre, bordered by the mainline railway tracks, the Leeds-to-Liverpool canal, the River Aire and Whitehall Road.

There is a dearth of good-quality new office space in Leeds. HBG’s scheme will rival Hermes/St James’ Wellington Place city centre development, which started in 2002. Four buildings are completed and more are to be developed in a joint venture with Arlington.

Leeds-based Hill Woolhouse advised HBG; Fowler Sandford and Smylie Norden advised Doncasters. DTZ and Hill Woolhouse will be the letting agents for the mixed-use scheme.

It certainly is. Cracking find HMM, I saw the headline on t'internet last week and posted it on the Official Leeds thread, but don't have access to the Property Week website. Certainly explains who bought it the site, which is v. interesting, firstly as the advert was in the summer (so its sold v.quickly) and secondly because HBG are the developers behind the Spiracle Tower and offices on the International Pool site. That's alot of development, and great to see a big firm put so much faith in Leeds.

Hope it still includes the rumoured 38 storey tower, but if a totally new masterplan is in order, then I guess it won't. The other thing is that they might steal a march on Town Centre Securities Whitehall Road scheme or Wellington Place, both of who have lots of office space planned, but seem to be waiting for pre-lets to go ahead. Might gee them up perhaps. Hey ho. If they start mid next year, then I'd suspect a planning application to be submitted anytime. Another Make or Aedas design? And Allies and Morrison involved as well. No Carey Jones. Yeeeeeee! :cheers:

This might be one of those projects that suddenly starts out of nowhere like things seem to do. Also Ive not heard 'hurrah' for years!

Thought I'd revive this thread as there seems to be some progress.

Planning application

10/02/06
By HBG Properties Ltd
06/00463/LI

Listed Building application for removal of structures and associated work and equipment from railway viaduct arches. Removal of brickwork attached to the viaduct and opening up of all arches by removal of reatailing walls.

At: Former Doncaster Monk Bridge Ltd., Whitehall Road, Lower Wortley, Leeds.

Ahmedd ahh!!, I'd noticed that one too. Looks like progress is being made.

Lots of demolition going on today. One of the large sheds has gone completely, and there were numerous pieces of plant on site.

I think this is going to be for car parking as a temporary measure, I'm sure I saw a further application for that area for car parking. I suppose now the once popular Globe Road car park site will be no longer available, and the new Globe Rd 2 car park is quite small, there will be a market for a new car park.

It'll be good to see the some of the naff old sheds go.

Anyone know when Globe Road car park is officially closing? The marketing suite is progressing well, so they cant be far off starting demolition on the site itself can they?

Lots of demolition going on today. One of the large sheds has gone completely, and there were numerous pieces of plant on site.

If you look at post 2 on the thread it suggests that HBG are intending to start construction in the middle of the year to bring the first office elements online by Q3 2007. I'd assume that HBG (a huge international property company) wouldn't need to resort to short term cash generation through the car park option, compared to Town Centre Securities, a veritable minnow in comparison, who have clearly used the current derelict site along Whitehall Road as a basic source of auxiliary income.

Once pp comes through I'd expect the entire Monksbridge site to really kick off, along with Globe Road (Greenbank), it'll be a hive of activity.

That said, we we led to believe that the next phase of Wellington Place to start, the fabled block 3a by Babcock and Brown, would do so in mid 2005, but as yet nothing has transpired.

Is the 38 storey tower still involved? Its not mentioned in the new article and I think was part of the original outline plans put together before Doncasters sold the site on.

There are HBG signs all over the demolition fencing if thats anything to go by...

http://members.lycos.co.uk/xapbpoh/photos/leeds_doncasters06a.JPG

http://members.lycos.co.uk/xapbpoh/photos/leeds_doncasters06b.JPG

Any renders of this scheme??

Any renders of this scheme??

None so far, but it's gone to a competition, with Aedas (BWP) and Make (could we see the resurrection of Kite Tower?) both involved.

HBG has invited four architects – Aedas Architects, Allies & Morrison, Edaw and Make – to compete to produce a masterplan.

None so far, but it's gone to a competition, with Aedas (BWP) and Make (could we see the resurrection of Kite Tower?) both involved.

Now that would be a good thing!

http://members.lycos.co.uk/xapbpoh/photos/leeds_doncasters06a.JPG

http://members.lycos.co.uk/xapbpoh/photos/leeds_doncasters06b.JPG

These aren't showing up Talisker, any chance of re-posting them from another host ?

There seems to be a problem with tripod. The photos were of the present site and won't be particularly interesting anyway untill the buildings are replaced

Not sure if this is significant or not, but over the past few days I have noticed that there are a lot of diggers, etc, clearing the area behind the actual Docanster works building.

They seem to be demolishing a whole load of it, which is good as those tin sheds don't do that part of the city centre any favours really. It can't be the start of anything big yet as they only have outline permission yet.

Could be linked to Greenbank though, could be another replacement car park as the one on the Greenbank site will be occupied soon.

Posted by Rob:

"They seem to be demolishing a whole load of it, which is good as those tin sheds don't do that part of the city centre any favours really. It can't be the start of anything big yet as they only have outline permission yet."

I took these pics a week ago:

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a178/apm22/3%20May%202006/P1010194.jpg


http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a178/apm22/3%20May%202006/P1010193.jpg


http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a178/apm22/3%20May%202006/P1010196.jpg

Although there are no architects' images released yet (at least, none that I've seen), I think this is a splendid location and a wonderful opportunity to create a fusion between old and new.

Walking past on Sunday, I thought I had to get another snap to show the impressive size of the site:\

http://img374.imageshack.us/img374/2276/img07712ir.jpg

As aviator says, little news of the site plans / chosen architects / timescales etc. Might be one that surprises us as HBG own the site, and their own construction division, so may see action on the site sooner rather than later, although I'm positive we haven't actually seen a planning application.

This was the photo I tried to post only a few weeks ago;

http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j73/xapbpoh/DONASTERS06-2.jpg

Impressive progress, but have we even got an outline application for this develoment yet?

The demolition has opened up a spectacular view of the Victorian railway arches.

I didn't realise the arches were there - I thought the bridge that used to abruptly end next to one of the Aireside Centre tin sheds was free-standing, and used to be quite vocal in calling for its removal...

It would be great if the tower element was still going ahead. With the Greenbank tower directly opposite, and Lumiere down the road, we'd have a nice little skyscraper canyon forming!

..

No details or images have been forthcoming, as it is such a preliminary proposal. There is approval for the towers in principle, but no full application, the whole site was for sale a while ago with the approval, not heard much since.

The outline application was submitted way back in 2004 (20/527/04/OT). The site is being cleared before a full application has been submitted.

I may be completely wrong about this, after only catching a glimpse on the train the other day, but it looked like hbg were unloading loads of porta-cabins onto the edge of this site? Surely nothing can be going ahead yet, unless it's all been planned very stealthily!

Yes I noticed this too. And they nearly finished clearing up the site. These guys don't mess around, I bet they will start (and finish) building before Green Bank.

Yeah, there was very little left on the site when I saw it. All the bricks/debris seems to have been shifted really quickly.

So just to confirm, this building is being built? And will be 38 stories?

they raised everything but the 3 floor building at the ned of that pic-a little to much if you ask me!!

So just to confirm, this building is being built? And will be 38 stories?

No, thats not quite the case. The site has outline planning permission for 38 storey and 20 storey towers along with numerous other blocks, but various architects frims were then invited to draw up a detailed masterplan. That, as far as I am aware, is the last anyone heard, except for an article as seen on page 1 that stated that the developers were hoping for a start this summer. There doesnt seem to have been any evidence of detailed planning permission unless everyone has overlooked it.

No, thats not quite the case. The site has outline planning permission for 38 storey and 20 storey towers along with numerous other blocks, but various architects frims were then invited to draw up a detailed masterplan. That, as far as I am aware, is the last anyone heard, except for an article as seen on page 1 that stated that the developers were hoping for a start this summer. There doesnt seem to have been any evidence of detailed planning permission unless everyone has overlooked it.

Agreed, HBG are huge developers and perhaps they are actually starting on site when they said they would do (summer 06!). They bought the site with outline pp given, but no detail. Lots of ancilliary ground work to be done no doubt, but am positive there hasn't been a detailed planning application submitted, unless it hasn't been published on the council website. Hey ho, all good stuff, the west end has been fairly quite recently, this and Green Bank will really gee things along. Surprised there hasn't been any media publicity on this seeing as it such a big development.

They did state they were going to build speculatively, and the size of the company suggests that they can certainly afford such a strategy.

the Property Week article (second post of the thread) stated intention was to bring the first commercial element to the market in autumn 2007, so starting on site now makes absolute sense and corresponds to this timescale. Still most bizarre lack of info though.

There must be a website for it somewhere- everyone get searching! I cant find one but hmm. Maybe a burst of information on it is should be expected soon.

try calling them, or the council if you wanna-sure would be a quick way of finding out

Thats what my advice was from someone at Turner & Townsend about Criterion Place.

..

From the HBG website, nothing of great interest...

HBG sponsors Leeds Metropolitan University garden at the Chelsea Flower Show
25 May 2006
Leeds Metropolitan University students are getting a green-fingered helping hand from HBG Properties. The company, part of HBG UK Ltd is sponsoring the group of five students known as ‘Cyrus Design’ at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2006. HBG Properties has recently acquired the 9½ acre Monk Bridge site in Leeds to develop, and as part of its community relations programme has got involved with the University.

York Gate Garden in Adel, near Leeds, has inspired the group of students, who are studying Garden Art & Design, to create the garden for the annual flower show, and on the opening day the garden was awarded a Gold medal for the Best Courtyard Garden. HBG is not only sponsoring the students, but is also involving them with the recently purchased Monk Bridge. ‘We are keen to involve the Leeds Metropolitan University students with real life business situations ongoing in the Leeds City Centre, to give them the opportunity of coming up with novel landscaping solutions to unusual problems.’ Ian Pennington, regional director of HBG Properties said.

‘The site includes a substantial Victorian viaduct, formally the main line for the Leeds to London trains. As part of the overall development proposals for the Monk Bridge site, comprising large office buildings and high density residential units, substantial areas of public and private landscaping are envisaged. This aspect of design offers a good opportunity for the students to look at the landscaping potential within the area previously occupied by the rail tracks on the viaduct – a protected and unique city centre environment.

HBG is always happy to involve themselves in the wider Leeds community, outside the property industry.’

The garden for the Chelsea Flower Show which is running from May 23-27 in London, is entitled ‘A Garden for Robin’ after Robin Spencer, whose abiding passion for collecting, design and gardening was the creative force behind York Gate. York Gate was bequeathed to the horticulturists’ charity, Perennial in 1994.

It is my understanding that this site has been cleared in preparation for development, though in the mean time it will be used as a car park. This is because work will be starting on Greenbank, the site of which is currently a car park.

I don't think there is even a developer on board yet ! the whole site (with outline permission) was advertised up for sale some time ago, heard nothing since.

However, could the appearance of HBG cabins be a sign of things about to start at Greenbank ? It is just across the road and would make a lot of sense for them to set up their compound off site (especially for such a big project like this) part of the Doncasters land hoarded off from a car park would be perfect for that.

We never heard who got the Greenbank contract, but the bigger jobs are often kept quiet as they are subject to big scale negotiations.

However, could the appearance of HBG cabins be a sign of things about to start at Greenbank ? It is just across the road and would make a lot of sense for them to set up their compound off site (especially for such a big project like this) part of the Doncasters land hoarded off from a car park would be perfect for that.

I had also considred that Greenbank may use extra land to house it's site offices etc, at least while demolition of the existing warehouse was taking place.
However, HBG are supposedly the developers for the Monk Bridge site according to the articles, and Wimpey Homes will surely be the developer for Greenbank, unless they need more expertise to build more complex buildings such as the tower?

I don't think there is even a developer on board yet ! the whole site (with outline permission) was advertised up for sale some time ago, heard nothing since.

However, could the appearance of HBG cabins be a sign of things about to start at Greenbank ? It is just across the road and would make a lot of sense for them to set up their compound off site (especially for such a big project like this) part of the Doncasters land hoarded off from a car park would be perfect for that.

We never heard who got the Greenbank contract, but the bigger jobs are often kept quiet as they are subject to big scale negotiations.

HBG are the developer! They are the all round package with their own construction arm, which could be why we haven't seen a contract tender...... perhaps because they are developing and building the whole scheme themselves. That's my take on it.

I doubt you'd put portakabins on site if its going to be used for a car park, though there could be some credibility in the fact that perhaps HBG are going to make a start on Green Bank, though I'd doubt it, as they are typically known for commercial and retail based development, not residential.

Unless someone makes a stop into the Leonardo Building and interrogates the desk clerk I'm afraid we may be none the wiser.

Again, I see no reason to doubt what was posted originally by heavymetalmayhem (what happened to him I wonder.....), and what I reposted on the 2nd post of this thread. Start summer 06, for delivery of first office phase for autumn 07 - the timescales all fit IMO.

curiouser and curiouser! Am home in two weeks time, will have a sniff around and utilise my super sleuthing skills.

they raised everything but the 3 floor building at the ned of that pic-a little to much if you ask me!!

Just noticed passing here on the train today that the last remaining part of the old Monkbridge Forge (except for a small box building which I guess is a substation) is now demolished wonder why they couldn't retain a small portion of the Whitehall Road facade of Monkbridge Forge as it could have been used to add character and history to this development which is a bit of a shame but hopefully the replacement would prove effective at revitalising this end of Leeds. Also is there any plans on providing new multistorey parking to replace the surface level car parks at Greenbank, Granary Wharf and at Whitehall when they are eventually developed and passing here on the train I noticed high levels of congestion on Globe Rd and Whitehall Rd during rush hour is there any chance of traffic management improvements such as traffic lights as surely high congestion could only become worse as development takes place in this area?

the last remaining part of the old Monkbridge Forge (except for a small box building which I guess is a substation) is now demolished wonder why they couldn't retain a small portion of the Whitehall Road facade of Monkbridge Forge as it could have been used to add character and history to this development ?

You mean this section?
Really annoyed by that. Why don't we demolish tower works as well!

You pointing to something in particular diLiv?

You pointing to something in particular diLiv?

Yes, I realised my mistake. I'm just so lazy right now.

http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j73/xapbpoh/DONASTERS06-2.jpg

Yes that has all gone!

Yes that has all gone!

Very disappointing. There's an aura about the area south of the river, something to do with the industrial legacy, that I wouldn't want to see destroyed, even for more tall buildings.

I hope the tower is well-designed to compensate for this needless destruction.

Very disappointing. There's an aura about the area south of the river, something to do with the industrial legacy, that I wouldn't want to see destroyed, even for more tall buildings.

I hope the tower is well-designed to compensate for this needless destruction.

Gotta disagree with you on this one Di Liv. It was a brick wall - and not a particularly attractive one at that. Look at what the removal of said wall has opened up, the viaduct could look great.....

The 2 - 3 storey with the two gables seems a bit of a sad loss, but the low rise and scruffy wall elemnts are good to have gone.

A bit unrelated, but I hate the way partial height (4ft-6ft) walls remained as boundaries for car parks etc from the walls of old Victorian industrial buildings around central Leeds, they look awful, particularly when the lower half of windows are still visible.. just chopped off half way up. I'm pleased those on Whitehall Road have mostly gone, but it took major developments to do it.

Well yes the 3 storey one was rather nice, but, honestly, you could not enjoy it when it was surrounded by this crap yard anyway. Guess they just could not keep it alone. Maybe they even tried as it was the last one standing.

Not really too sad to see any of the existing structures disappear. Not a huge amount of architectural merit for me, but I certainly hope the proposals are of a high quality. I really dont want to see masses of non-descript midrise stretching from West Point to the railway lines. Fingers crossed.

Gotta disagree with you on this one Di Liv. It was a brick wall - and not a particularly attractive one at that. Look at what the removal of said wall has opened up, the viaduct could look great.....

Think I'm with you on this one, matey, and I don't think we should get too misty-eyed about the leftovers from the Industrial Revolution, either. Yes, we need to keep examples of the buildings of the time; and I certainly don't believe we should demolish perfectly good, serviceable buildings which could be adapted and reused. And it goes without saying that we should keep those few, rare examples of buildings which are of architectural significance. But this building was no great shakes and I'd much prefer to see the street frontage of the Tower Works to be kept.

Pictures from the Monksbridge forge tower building site from across the canal

http://static.flickr.com/63/168572682_1000dbc773.jpg?v=0 http://static.flickr.com/45/168572583_6fadaea437.jpg?v=0

http://static.flickr.com/62/168572504_713d73a38f.jpg?v=0 http://static.flickr.com/75/168572187_3eb271f518.jpg?v=0

Picture of last standing buiding on the Monksbridge tower site.

http://static.flickr.com/70/168572272_681a844a7e.jpg?v=0

Taken on the 16th of june.

http://static.flickr.com/70/168571981_93f8955dc9.jpg?v=0

welcome, and thanks for the photos seetheworldgoby

I think Leeds does particularly well in recognising its industrial heritage. Four major schemes in Holbeck (Marshall Mills, Round Foundary, Tower Works and Temple Mill) are absolute gems and if Round Foundary is anything to go by, then we'll have wonderful mix of mixed use schemes all based around and genuflecting to the industries on which Leeds was built.

I see where di Liv is coming from, but I don't really think that red brick facade along Whitehall Road would be anywhere near my list of buildings to be retained. Much of the real change was undertaken in the 1970s and 1980s when the rail yards and factories along Whitehall Road (as Rob alluded to with the cut down exterior walls), were knocked down and turned into car parks. Perhaps the biggest crime was demolishing something like the Queen's Hall on Sovereign Street (though I don't quite remember it myself,... Fred2? what was your opinion of it? Anyway, its now the site of Criterion Place.

Perhaps the biggest crime was demolishing something like the Queen's Hall on Sovereign Street (though I don't quite remember it myself,... Fred2? what was your opinion of it? Anyway, its now the site of Criterion Place.

Believe me it was no crime. It was a horrible sooty erstwhile brick monstrosity which was built as a tram shed. Its only saving grace is that it was large and could hold exhibitions etc.

Thanks Jimbo and Hello to everyone else

The residential component of the site comprises a line of four buildings of equal footprint and spacing following the curve of the viaduct to the north of the site. The provision of retail and leisure facilities within the scheme is integral to ensure the sustainability of both the commercial and residential components of this site and those adjacent.

The currently disused island site, bounded to the west by the river and to the east by the canal, provides the opportunity to develop a public park for the City, which both continues the green ribbon from the train station out along the canal, while opening up the neglected river frontage and providing a link along the new pedestrian routes from the city, through the Wellington Place site and out towards outlying neighbourhoods such as Armley. Buildings are located to ensure when entering the site from Whitehall Road, the viaduct and viaduct walk in the foreground are clearly visible as the building corridor opens up.

The development of the public realm will create a number of pedestrian routes providing links to routes around the site to both improve pedestrian links between the City and the ‘west end’ and help further open up the canal and viaduct for the enjoyment of the public. Issues At the time of writing the report, the application had only recently been received and not validated.

Okay, tower down from 38 to 25 storeys, but not to worry. Again outline permission, no mention of the winning architect. Hey ho, great stuff, gives us a cracking idea of what's going on though.

HBG Monksbridge clearly a recently incorporated subsidiary of HBG Group. This WILL happen, HBG are absolutely massive and clearly can steal the thunder of Town Centre Securities and Hermes / MEPC at Whitehall Road and Wellington Place respectively due to their market presence and the well capitalised nature of their business (i.e. lots of cash).

What the FUCK.

What the FUCK.

absolutely, not sure what happened then. perhaps the back button doesn't always work. Any chance you can delete the double posts wjfox2002?

'that's never happened before', as one of my more infamous date lines once went.

Any chance you can delete the double posts wjfox2002?

Done.

Actually, it was a double-double-triple post you made :D

Believe me it was no crime. It was a horrible sooty erstwhile brick monstrosity which was built as a tram shed. Its only saving grace is that it was large and could hold exhibitions etc.

i think we could do with someing like Queens Hall but bigger in leeds (someing like the NEC(if thats what its actualy called))

Okay, tower down from 38 to 25 storeys, but not to worry. Again outline permission, no mention of the winning architect. Hey ho, great stuff, gives us a cracking idea of what's going on though.


I'd be more than pleased to see a 25 storey tower amongst other blocks here, considering this was the outline proposal that was most on the back burner, and didn't look like happening at all. Last we heard was it was all up for sale, so it has clearly moved on a long way from there.

I've got lots to report on this project from today's planning meeting, but I've run out of time today. I'll try to fill you in tomorrow.

I've got lots to report on this project from today's planning meeting, but I've run out of time today. I'll try to fill you in tomorrow.

Any news Rob?

come on rob let us knpw the news please dude.!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

OK, just got back from a week away.

The presentation was received well, the overall masterplan by architects Allies and Morrison has been well thought out and and includes lots of good features that pleased the planning team.

It includes four office buildings between Whitehall Road and the disused viaduct, with access roads in a cross shape so that part looks a bit like an England flag. The two office buildings directly fronting the Whitehall Road are 10 storeys (no images of them yet) and the back ones are lower rise. The canal facing side will be a small green area, as will the land between the canal and river (the planners liked that).

The dis-used viaduct is to be a small park, grassed and with trees, paths etc and link into Wellington Place, with some co-opertation with Hermes over the link up (the planners liked this too).

Behind/adjacent to the viaduct is the residential element, with a 25-22 storey tower nearest and aligned with the Armley 'round house', and other blocks ranged along the viaduct at 18 storeys, 16 storeys and 12 storeys nearest the canal. The residential buildings all lead out onto the viaduct 'park' and partly lean over it at the upper levels (although the planning team didn't like that, and the lean over is to be reduced). Their access is through some of the viaduct arches, which is quite unique (the planners liked that) and other arches are to be turned into retail units. They intend to keep some features relating to the site's past, which used to make turbine blades, they have found some moulds and may give the street furniture a turbine theme, everyone liked that idea.

They are optomistic about the masterplan and are very keen to get started as soon as possible. They are due to make a full application for phase 1 soon, which includes the 10 storey office block fronting Whitehall Road nearest the canal and all the green elements and roads infront of the viaduct. They are also in talks with a residential developer and the residential part could move forward in the not too distant future.

...... They are optomistic about the masterplan and are very keen to get started as soon as possible. They are due to make a full application for phase 1 soon, which includes the 10 storey office block fronting Whitehall Road nearest the canal and all the green elements and roads infront of the viaduct. They are also in talks with a residential developer and the residential part could move forward in the not too distant future.

I'm interested in this one because the outline planning submission only went in at the beginning of July and the meeting that Rob reported so succinctly (thanks for that, by the way) was a pre-planning discussion of the proposals. However, HBG have quite a significant presence on the site, as reported above and work has been continuing since seetheworldgoby posted the pics on 17 June.

I drive past the site a couple of times a week and it looks to me as though the site team are preparing the ground ready for a quick start as soon as full planning permission is given. Frustratingly, though, there's still no mention of this huge project on Allies & Morrison's website.

Yes the Dutch waste no time. I expect them to set a record time completing such a massive project. Have great hopes about the quality as well.

work has been continuing since seetheworldgoby posted the pics on 17 June.

I drive past the site a couple of times a week and it looks to me as though the site team are preparing the ground ready for a quick start as soon as full planning permission is given.

Significant activity is going on. A few weeks back the site was levelled and the debris had been removed. They have since dug some huge holes (I cant say for sure but possibly removing old foundations?).

Today.
http://img429.imageshack.us/img429/9129/monforwz9.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Well, folks, a bit of movement here. A full planning application was submitted on 21 Sept for the laying out of an access road and an 8-storey office block. Think this might make me get my lazy arse into gear and wander up the the planning office to see what it looks like.

Well, folks, a bit of movement here. A full planning application was submitted on 21 Sept for the laying out of an access road and an 8-storey office block. Think this might make me get my lazy arse into gear and wander up the the planning office to see what it looks like.

good find aviator, and that fires up my neurons with something I found out last month. not hugely exciting, but at London Open House weekend 3 weeks ago I had a tour of the Allies and Morrison office in Southwark Street. Their two key projects in London relate to the 3 Sisters (Elizabeth House redevelopment next to Waterloo) and 100 Bishopsgate, but they are also master planning the Monksbridge Forge in Leeds. The girl doing the tour wasn't involved in the project per se, but did state that it was all systems go for the scheme, primarily as the client (HBG) are very keen to get moving with it.

Their website: http://www.alliesandmorrison.co.uk/ still doesn't seem to have anything to say on the matter - but hopefully it'll only be a matter of time before we get to see the full scheme.

Aedas architects have been working with HBG for about 8 months now following the purchase of the site. The original master plan produced by Carey Jones has been ditched and the plan for a 2 towers of circa 38 and 25 have also been ditched.

HBG are a commercial developer and have reduced the amount of residential dramatically from the original masterplan. I suspect they will submit multiple applications for 8-10 storey offices over several years as demand dictates.

Aedas architects have been working with HBG for about 8 months now following the purchase of the site. The original master plan produced by Carey Jones has been ditched and the plan for a 2 towers of circa 38 and 25 have also been ditched.

HBG are a commercial developer and have reduced the amount of residential dramatically from the original masterplan. I suspect they will submit multiple applications for 8-10 storey offices over several years as demand dictates.

really - I thought Allies and Morrison were master planning the site........ as one of their architects mentioned when I toured their studio last month, and stated that work was going full speed ahead on this....., unless I've got the wrong end of the stick somewhere along the line. Aedas did BWP and bits of Brewery Wharf and have their offices next to the Jurys Hotel I think. In-fact Rob confirmed A&M in his post (no.71) from July, having attended the council planning meeting. Perhaps they (HBG) wanted 2 master plans and were going to decide which to proceed with based on the councils feedback. Does seem a rather expensive way of doing it though.

curiouser and curiouser

really - I thought Allies and Morrison were master planning the site........ as one of their architects mentioned when I toured their studio last month, and stated that work was going full speed ahead on this....., unless I've got the wrong end of the stick somewhere along the line...

You're quite right, of course. I went to look at the planning application for the office block which will be the first part of the development to go up. Among the stack of papers I was given were transport and flood studies for the whole site, all commissioned by Allies and Morrison, and a copy of the A & M masterplan itself which must have been the one Rob saw when he went to the planning presentation.

Frustratingly, the only thing not present in all the paperwork was one of those nice CGI renders which is about all that a building novice like me can understand. Anyway, here goes!!

The building will stand here fronting Whitehall Road and forming one of a pair of 7-storey block (8 storeys if you count the basement parking).


http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a178/apm22/3%20May%202006/P1010195.jpg


The building will be set back from the road, mostly glazed with metal finishes and with stone detail in places. It will be shaped like a letter E with the scooped out bit at the back forming a semi-private landscaped area. No terracotta apart from some screening on the stairwell which is at the back (and that will be coloured grey). The stairwell facade is to be rendered. There are steps and a ramp leading down to the canalside. This is to be landscaped with a walkway along it and some moorings installed.

Er... what else? That's it, really. As you can tell, there's to be nothing flash about it and some people will find it boring and bland. To me, it most resembled Whitehall II, though without the red brick. Maybe Allies and Morrison are deliberately keeping it low key to act as a foil to the copper cladding of Greenbank across the road. For my part, I'd hoped for something rather more eyecatching but this seems to be for something decent and well-mannered that opens up a blighted area of the city.

Much appreciated, Aviator.

What isn't appreciated is another 'provincial business town'-style development in what could be an interesting location.
I also can't get across the enmity i feel towards stingy developers/architects who won't release pretty pictures with their designs. Killjoys.

Much appreciated, Aviator.

What isn't appreciated is another 'provincial business town'-style development in what could be an interesting location.
I also can't get across the enmity i feel towards stingy developers/architects who won't release pretty pictures with their designs. Killjoys.

I dont want to put a downer on this development before it even begins, but I have to say I was disappointed when I heard Allies and Morrison had won the competition, looking at their website there is an awful lot of non-descript, rather uninspiring architecture. I'm sure it will be functional, but a bit of form never goes amiss.
One thing I will say about this development though is that it seems to have a strong sense of where it's going, HBG are really getting down to business and arent messing around like certain other developers. (One of whom are developing a site not too far away............!)

Hi. I'm a newbie on the site & was wondering if anybody knows the plans for the viaduct behind? I did see it was supposed to be a walkway in the paper a while ago-But i haven't seen anything drawn up since! It's a fantastic structure & deserves a good scheme.

Fear not, it is the focal point of the whole scheme with a linear park along the top, with links off one end into Wellington Place, and with the residential blocks actually accessing directly onto the viaduct. This is central to the planning application, and is due to be carried out in one of the early phases of the development.

Bugger - I'd been hoping they would use the viaduct as a guided busway in the sky...

It's one use; but I would much rather it become part of the city as the park it is intended to be :) Guided busways can go anywhere really.

It must be that case that 99% of Leeds residents are unaware of the viaduct. This should be a great feature and made more of.

It must be that case that 99% of Leeds residents are unaware of the viaduct. This should be a great feature and made more of.

Agreed totally. Could be a good place for public art and gardens. Maybe something to do with the siting of the much desired viewing tower or whatever Leeds will have instead of the wheel?

Subliving.

It's one use; but I would much rather it become part of the city as the park it is intended to be :) Guided busways can go anywhere really.

Imagine how quick a bus would be into town from Elland Road at rush hour if you could go via the viaduct direct into town, even versus a guided busway following the existing road system all the way?...
Agreed we need more public park space in town though...

Well yeah, but to stick a guided busway above the inner ring road, or next to it all the way would speed buses into town.

It's great that they can still continue to keep utlising / maximising the space that all the viaducts in the city create - this is only a logical continuation of the kind of thing they did in the city centre when Granary Wharf was redevelloped as a vibrant arts/ cafe / specialist shops zone directly beneath the City Station. Of course, this must have been over10 years ago now, but nevertheless the potential is there to utilise all these spaces and fully exploit to the full the chance to create an attractrive mix of urban heritage and modern living quarters. Of course Manchester has a very similar situation with its rail viaducts but here in Bradford we don't have that luxury as both of our main rail corridors are sunken below street level anyway! :(

O/T - it always annoys me that Bradfords 2 rail stations aren't linked...

Yeah - fully agree. I mean, it's just how things transpired from the Victorain days. Both Stations were pretty impressive affairs judging from old pictures, but the way they've been downsized over the years has been shocking.

I'm sure there's more mileage for debate about this on a designated thread! :)

The viaduct would make a great landscaped area. But i agree with Leeds lad about how Leeds has missed a brilliant opportunity at utillising it's redundant viaducts for transport schemes. I don't know if people realise that the Central viaduct has the capability to carry track over the Armley gyratory & has spare track space all the way along the rail main line alongside Armley moor road. I paid a visit to the viaduct a while back & have some pics here http://www.flickr.com/photos/phill_dvsn/sets/72157594310089861/

There are some cracking images there - and they bring up a raft of questions like how you got to take them?

Esp. some of them windswept places up Cross Green way which like most railway sidings etc are always totally bereft of human life.

We won't go into that too much :) Let's just say privalleged access for now! :cheers:

There's some brilliant photos on there, I never knew the old rail yards were so rustic looking and atmospheric. I often wonder how old that gantry crane is, could be from almost any time in the 20th centrury.

Cheer's rob! It was just the central viaduct concerning the Monkbridge developement i added the link for really. It' a lot more complex inside than it looks from the road.

Just a few pics of the site as it stands, seem to be doing the initial ground work. Dont suppose anybody has mange to come across any renders for this one?

http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g24/save_mejebus/Monkbridge%20Forge%2010-11-06/MF1.jpg

http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g24/save_mejebus/Monkbridge%20Forge%2010-11-06/MF2.jpg

Also whats going on here, is it part of Monkbridge Forge or somthing else??

http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g24/save_mejebus/Monkbridge%20Forge%2010-11-06/MF3.jpg

Also whats going on here, is it part of Monkbridge Forge or somthing else??

http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g24/save_mejebus/Monkbridge%20Forge%2010-11-06/MF3.jpg

That's part of the Wellington Place site.

No he's right, the monkbridge towers are definately on there. I didn't realise the towers were going to be on the far side (west) of the old railway bridge though.

You've confused me Talisker, who are you replying to and who are you saying is right? The last picture is definitely Wellington Place (north of the river and just to the west of the disused railway viaduct)...

http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g24/save_mejebus/Monkbridge%20Forge%2010-11-06/MF2.jpg



Is that a base for a crane in front of the fence?

I think I've confused myself as well. My browser is set to show the photos in a separate window and I was looking at the wellington place renders instead. So yes, that photo is of the wellington place site and not monkbridge.

Just a few pics of the site as it stands, seem to be doing the initial ground work. Dont suppose anybody has mange to come across any renders for this one?

http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g24/save_mejebus/Monkbridge%20Forge%2010-11-06/MF2.jpg

I'm not an expert on muddy holes in the ground but isn't this the Manor Mills site in Holbeck?

You know, I was wondering why I couldnt work out which angle that photo had been taken from!

http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g24/save_mejebus/Monkbridge%20Forge%2010-11-06/MF2.jpg

I'm not an expert on muddy holes in the ground but isn't this the Manor Mills site in Holbeck?

ooops silly me, yes that is the Manor Mills site. Dont know what I was thinking sorry

I'm not an expert on muddy holes in the ground but isn't this the Manor Mills site in Holbeck?

funny you say that - was sitting at work thinking a similar thing. Didn't think they were that advanced (tower crane base etc) yet. Expect they have quite a lot of cleaning up of the old industrial site to do before construction can start. They do seem to have been digging around at Monksbridge for ages.

It looks like there digging out the old foundations here. There's also a subway that connects the two sites accross Whitehall road that hasn't been filled in yet! http://static.flickr.com/114/276212793_72a3bcb4bb_b.jpg

awww, I thought you were going to show us a picture of the subway there! shame I didn't know that it existed.

Sorry stig.. The jobsworth in the box in the car park stuck his nose in just before i could snap it! It's really clear if you can get in the car park & i think you can just about see it covered over opposite Globe road on the other side. Did you know there's an old passageway & tunnel that's been blocked off under the railway bridge lower down that used to go to Holbeck station years ago? It was really narrow & grim. You can still see the archway there!

Chances are next time I get to Leeds, this spectre of a development will be built, so unlikely I'll get to go snooping!

This scheme has received outline planning permission. (Fair to say it was expected judging by the amount of site work already done!)

Not surprising, it's a good scheme, and the planning officers liked it's attention to detail from day one.

This scheme has received outline planning permission. (Fair to say it was expected judging by the amount of site work already done!)

So what's been approved - an original version with towers or cut-down version as per insider007 post? Sorry Leeds planning site is not working for me.

This scheme has received outline planning permission. (Fair to say it was expected judging by the amount of site work already done!)

still no renders in the public eye, or even news / project details on the Allies and Morrison website though! Grrrr! Frustrating. It will be a farce if several office blocks start going up without us having seen renders, when we've been deluged (ish) with them for Whitehall Riverside and Wellington Place over the last 2 years but sweet FA seems to be going on site.

still no renders in the public eye, or even news ... It will be a farce if several office blocks start going up without us having seen renders...

Hey look what I've found on HBG Web site.

http://www.hbgproperties.co.uk/projects/current/images/latitude_1.jpg

http://www.hbgproperties.co.uk/projects/current/images/latitude_2.jpg

They call it Latitude Leeds.

LATITUDE
A 10 acre site in Central Leeds with planning consent for 598,000 sq ft offices in four buildings, plus 650 residential units.

Phase I scheduled for completion 2008.

VITAL STATISTICS
Location
Leeds

Total sq ft. / sq m.
120,000 / 11,200

Agents
Hill Woodhouse and DTZ.


http://www.hbgproperties.co.uk/projects/current/latitude.html

Seems the tower has definitely gone. Lets hope that was an early version.....

Seems the tower has definitely gone. Lets hope that was an early version.....

I don't think it is. That configuration of the four office blocks at the front of the site is exactly as it was when I went to the planning office the other to see the application for the first building.

This is the present scheme. The block in the bottom right of the first picture is the first block to be built. (The "U" shape building.)
The residential towers following the line of the viaduct step up to 25 storeys I believe.
Well found!

looks good just really a bit gutted about the tower no longer included in the proposals really could have focal point for the area and would have brought people down to this area of the city, im sure this development still will though

Great to see HBG developing this site im sure they will crack on with it and not fanny about with it like TCS whitehall riverside development

what is the planned time scale for the entire development does anybody know ??????????????????????????????

Not sure of the exact timeframe, sorry, butone thing I will say is that HBG are damn efficient at getting thngs done, and only a few days after outline planning was achieved, they are straight in with the app to decontaminate the site, (06/06408/FU), which obviously they didnt want to have to do if they didnt receive planning for the development. With existing apps in for the building of the first office block and the layout of the new road network, once they've finished site excavation they will be able to crack straight on with starting the office block and then decontaminating the rest of the land. Should be one of the main projcts to watch next year.

Hey look what I've found on HBG Web site.

http://www.hbgproperties.co.uk/projects/current/images/latitude_1.jpg

http://www.hbgproperties.co.uk/projects/current/images/latitude_2.jpg

They call it Latitude Leeds.

http://www.hbgproperties.co.uk/projects/current/latitude.html

Great find dude, the shape of the buildings look interesting. Anybody know if details of materials were given in the planning application? Agree its a shame that the size of the towers has been downsized, would have given providence tower some company. Still cant complain too much its still gonna be 25 storeys! On the model on the far side of the viaduct the too buildings seem to the connected to the viaduct. Could the little one maybe a lift to the viaduct, like there'll be on the otherside at wellington place. Seems to small to be anything else

From the Dec 06 Leeds Economy Bulletin. Looks like we'll be getting an imminent start on site in the New Year, and HBG likely to steal a real march against Town Centre Securities (no wonder they've actively started marketing the two new blocks at their site on Whitehall Road).

The first phase of the Latitude development, on the former Doncasters Monkbridge site,will comprise 128,509 sq ft of Grade A office accommodation. Construction is due to commence in early 2007 with completion expected mid 2008. The development comprises 600,000 sq ft of Grade A office accommodation, apartments and retail/leisure units.

Once completion begins can we start a thread named "Latitude" then?

With so much digging and other work they are doing right now we can surely start Latitude u/c thread.

They still need to submit a full planning application though. Don't they only have outline approval?

Is there a final masterplan available for the general public to peruse? And may be so bold as to ask if any renders have been released yet??

Oh, and does anyone know what height this development will top out at or are they going to change the masterplan as they develop the different phases?

They still need to submit a full planning application though. Don't they only have outline approval?

The do, but it does not stop them from steaming ahead. I think Basilica was nearly finished when they hang out a planning application.

Is there a final masterplan available for the general public to peruse? And may be so bold as to ask if any renders have been released yet??

Oh, and does anyone know what height this development will top out at or are they going to change the masterplan as they develop the different phases?

One of my friends has just been tasked to photograph a birds eye view of the site from a crane in the new year, so we should have some images soon.

They still need to submit a full planning application though. Don't they only have outline approval?

They applied for full permission back in September for the first office block and laying out of the road network. A decision should be any time now.

06/05718/FU

some big holes opening on site

Rather alot of digging going on around here.....

http://img264.imageshack.us/img264/8216/1000558gc7.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Passed it on the bus to work, half asleep. Basically just some fun in the mud so far. Doesnt look like anything has solidly started. Any news on planning permission???

Joe x x

Spotted that from the canal towpath - certainly some serious earth moving.

Anything planned for the short viaduct section in the background of that pic?

There must have been at least half a dozen diggers/excavators busily working on the site this morning.


http://i139.photobucket.com/albums/q281/nosmo2/CIMG1784.jpg

No real news to report, except to say that they were unloading more HBG portacabins this morning. There's a stack of the already on the spit of land between the river and the canal. But this latest batch was being unloaded towards the back of the main site. Given the current levels of furious activity, it made me wonder if planning approval was imminent on the first block of the development.

Noticed yesterday what clearly appeared to be the construction of a site office with very green and orange portakabins with the HBG (I think thats what it is) of the developer. Does this mean construction is starting now and are they doing as it appears the whole site in one go? Certainly hope this would make Green Bank, Wellington Place and Whitehall Riverside get a move on.

The fun inthe mud has also turned into some clear and definate holes in the ground. They have straight edges and everything :) Was someone down there taking pictures on their mobile phone last week? I was the young man with the grey hooded top and dark gray coat on if it was any of you.

Im pretty confused with this development whats the project i know intially it was a tower but now whta is it really/
And is t near huv?

hbg again, they seem to get all the jobs around the Whitehall area, must be just a coincidence though. They're a good main contractor, doing a fine job on St Stephens Centre in Hull at the moment.

Im pretty confused with this development whats the project i know intially it was a tower but now whta is it really/
And is t near huv?

Christ on a bike.

deduced by the ability to read this thread and cross reference it to other threads, local knowledge and a general understanding of development in Leeds City Centre, its a mixed use development, mainly office, but now mixed with residential. The original scheme gained outline planning permission simply to drive up the land value and sell the site onwards (which it did successfully), and contained a mooted 38 storey tower, but this has been scaled back to a series of residential towers up to around c.21 storeys on the other side of the abandoned viaduct.

yes, its at the end of Globe Road, Green Bank separates it from HUV.

Do you live in Leeds or even read any of the other threads? I do wonder.

hbg again, they seem to get all the jobs around the Whitehall area, must be just a coincidence though. They're a good main contractor, doing a fine job on St Stephens Centre in Hull at the moment.

in this case HBG are both the developer and contractor. A comparable peer would be Canary Wharf Group (CWG) who develop and source their own construction teams for the estate in the Docklands. Quite unique really. They've probably realised how crap and slow TCS are being on Whitehall Road, and thought they could do much better themselves and hence decided to drive ahead with the devleopment of the entire Monksbridge site.

A reply to jimbo.
I do live in Leeds and i do most of the time usually read most of the threads but htis has changed and confused me many a time.I do have a generally very good knoweldge on the many developments in the city and do explore round the developments out of interest so now thank you jimbo i am aware of this one.

I moved to Leeds in September of last year from India and I love the city already. I have been to quite a few cities (including London) and I must say that the Leeds people are freaking gorgeous. They are the best looking people in the whole of UK. And I adore the city too. It has got something, a kind of an energy. There's optimism everywhere.

..

..

UK's sexiest city in 2005- Young Persons Railcard Poll :)

UK's sexiest city in 2005- Young Persons Railcard Poll :)

And I am the sexiest of the sexiest city. I'm a sexlater!

I moved to Leeds in September of last year from India and I love the city already. I have been to quite a few cities (including London) and I must say that the Leeds people are freaking gorgeous. They are the best looking people in the whole of UK. And I adore the city too. It has got something, a kind of an energy. There's optimism everywhere.

Hi Rakesh, welcome to Leeds (and to 'THE' Leeds forum). it is a buzzing, bright and compact city, perhaps needs a little tidying up here and there, but it has to be the best regional city in the UK.

Hi Rakesh, welcome to Leeds (and to 'THE' Leeds forum). it is a buzzing, bright and compact city, perhaps needs a little tidying up here and there, but it has to be the best regional city in the UK.

Thx, Rob. Leeds surely is the sexiest city!!

the Leeds people are freaking gorgeous.


A guy from Bangalore told me the most beautiful people in the world are from Kerala in India, which is also referred to as 'God's own country'.

A guy from Bangalore told me the most beautiful people in the world are from Kerala in India, which is also referred to as 'God's own country'.


Well, I am from there and I am not that handsome. Hahahaha!!! It is referred to as 'God's Own Country' because it's amazingly green. It's the cleanest state in India (there are some pretty dirty places but comparitively) and the most literarte (almost 100%)

Originally Posted by rakesh
and I must say that the Leeds people are freaking gorgeous.

I know we are ! :)

Thx, Rob. Leeds surely is the sexiest city!!

What makes you say that ?

What makes you say that ?

Leodensians are sexy. I live here and I find them hot.

Leodensians are sexy. I live here and I find them hot.

But what is your yardstick ? Have you lived in Manchester/Birmingham/Bristol/ Sheffield/London and found them less hot than Leeds ?

But what is your yardstick ? Have you lived in Manchester/Birmingham/Bristol/ Sheffield/London and found them less hot than Leeds ?

I have not lived there for long but I have visited these cities. I am sure I mentioned this earlier.

I have not lived there for long but I have visited these cities. I am sure I mentioned this earlier.

So a short visit to EACH of ALL these places (and presumably others) has determined for you the relative level of sexiness - with Leeds at the top. Although others may puff out their chests here at yet another accolade for Leeds - it is, in all honesty, a doubtful one !

But I am intrigued, rakesh. Just how do you go about testing this level of sexiness? I take it you must use a sampling technique. How big are your samples - and what steps do you take to ensure that they are representative of all the young ladies in the respective cities ?? I have further to ask. Are they all young ladies ?
:cheers:

So a short visit to EACH of ALL these places (and presumably others) has determined for you the relative level of sexiness - with Leeds at the top. Although others may puff out their chests here at yet another accolade for Leeds - it is, in all honesty, a doubtful one !

But I am intrigued, rakesh. Just how do you go about testing this level of sexiness? I take it you must use a sampling technique. How big are your samples - and what steps do you take to ensure that they are representative of all the young ladies in the respective cities ?? I have further to ask. Are they all young ladies ?
:cheers:

Oh my god! What is it that you want me to say? My opinion is subjective, alright. I mean, I don't know any of these gals personally. I am just talking about their physical beauty (first impression, whatever). And sorry, I haven't done any survey on which is the sexiest place in UK. All I have done is some people watching. Isn't that good enough to form an opinion. It might be incorrect. But can't I have my own opinion? And I am not fawning or being unctuous (I don't need to do that) to be "popular" or "likable" on this messageboard. I rarely do post here. I just wanted to say how sexy I thought the Leeds people were and I have gotten into trouble. Sorry, I'll keep my mouth shut.

Oh my god! What is it that you want me to say? My opinion is subjective, alright. I mean, I don't know any of these gals personally. I am just talking about their physical beauty (first impression, whatever). And sorry, I haven't done any survey on which is the sexiest place in UK. All I have done is some people watching. Isn't that good enough to form an opinion. It might be incorrect. But can't I have my own opinion? And I am not fawning or being unctuous (I don't need to do that) to be "popular" or "likable" on this messageboard. I rarely do post here. I just wanted to say how sexy I thought the Leeds people were and I have gotten into trouble. Sorry, I'll keep my mouth shut.

Rakesh, you are perefectly entitled to your own opinion - but please don't take umbrage as soon as you are challenged to explain your opinion. That's what happens on this (and other) forums.
Your views on this subject are formed from observation only (rather than experimentation) in the various places you have been to in the six months since you have come to this country. Fair enough.

Rakesh, you are perefectly entitled to your own opinion - but please don't take umbrage as soon as you are challenged to explain your opinion. That's what happens on this (and other) forums.
Your views on this subject are formed from observation only (rather than experimentation) in the various places you have been to in the six months since you have come to this country. Fair enough.


Sorry, mate. I thought you were picking on me. And yes, it's all observation and not experimentation. :wink2: Lol!!!

..

It's the cleanest state in India ]...] and the most literate (almost 100%)


That's impressive - it's at least twice as literate as this forum...

If you fellas want to talk about how beautiful you think each other is then why dont you start a thread about it. This one is about Monk Bridge Forge, not a gay flirt thread!!!!!!!!

If you fellas want to talk about how beautiful you think each other is then why dont you start a thread about it. This one is about Monk Bridge Forge, not a gay flirt thread!!!!!!!!

OK, secure in the knowledge that Leeds is the sexiest city, we can now go back to discussing Monk Bridge Forge and the first thing to be said is that the title of the thread should be changed - as we ain't going to get a 38 storey tower. :)

..

It should be changed but I don't think we can do that, so we could perhaps just start a new thread starting with the project details.

Returning to the matter at hand for a moment (though a new thread when more info is available would be good), does anyone know what's going on with the permision for the new block and road?
The target date for the approval was mid december, and here we are in March (though I know the target date isnt always met)..........

Returning to the matter at hand for a moment (though a new thread when more info is available would be good), does anyone know what's going on with the permision for the new block and road?
..........


I haven't heard anything but HBG are obviously confident that permission for the first block is a done deal since they're focussing their efforts on this corner where it will stand.


http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a178/apm22/8%20March%202007/P1010064.jpg?t=1173518571


http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a178/apm22/8%20March%202007/P1010065.jpg?t=1173518616

At last some real news. Next week's Plans Panel is to consider the full application for the office block (originally submitted last autumn) and the revised outline proposal for the whole site.

I enclose a considerably truncated summary below of the proposals but two things stand out. One, the whole development will be 20,000 square metres bigger than originally envisaged. The other is that the tallest of the residential blocks has grown to 33 storeys


Introduction
Members agreed an outline mixed use proposal for the site in April 2005 for about 98,000 sq. m. of gross office, residential and ancillary retail and leisure uses subject to the completion of a section 106 legal agreement.

The site has subsequently been sold to the current applicant who held preapplication discussions with Council Officers with a view to submitting revised proposals for the site. The nature of the proposed uses remains the same as that approved but the proportional mix of the uses and design of the proposed buildings has been altered significantly.

Proposal
The application proposes a substantial mixed use development, extending to about 117,000 sq metres. The master plan drawings indicate that the site will be developed with 9 buildings, along with selected infilling of 7 archways within the viaduct. No development is proposed on the ‘island’ to the east of the site, between the Leeds & Liverpool Canal and River Aire. This will provide a publicly accessible park.

The mixed use development would comprise the following components:
• Office (B1) circa 69,500 sq metres;
• Residential (C3) circa 46,175 sq metres (about 726 residential units);
• Retail (A1, A2,, A3, A4 and A5), D1 and D2 uses 1,577 sq metres;
• Public Open Space.

The B1 office use would be accommodated within 5 blocks located to the south of the listed viaduct. The height of the office buildings range from a 6 storey block, located to the west of the site adjacent to the viaduct and 8 storey blocks fronting onto the Leeds & Liverpool Canal. The office block fronting onto Whitehall Road to the west of the site is 10 storeys and the largest block is 12 storeys in height, adjacent to the railway line. The remaining portion of developable area of the site to the north of the viaduct will accommodate 4 residential blocks with the height of these buildings ranging from 15 storeys to 33 storeys.

The full application relates to the proposed office building fronting Whitehall Road adjacent to the Canal. It will provide 17,220 sq. m. of floorspace arranged over 8 floors. It has a rectangular form with its primary elevations to Whitehall Road, the canal and the internal access road comprising mostly clear glazing articulated by metal framework and stone rainscreen panels. The rear northern elevation to a proposed courtyard and bin servicing area would be finished in a dark metal rainscreen panel. The main entrance to the building would be off Whitehall Road.

Site and Surroundings
The buildings to the Whitehall Road frontage would be similar in scale to those allowed and partly implemented to the north side of the river towards the City Centre (9 to 10 storeys high) and would be set back by 7 metres from the kerb line to allow the provision of a boulevard streetscene along Whitehall Road (also in line with the proposals agreed to the north of the river).

The proposed tower blocks of up to 33 storeys high would be compatible with the scale of the 38 and 20 storey buildings agreed as part of the previous consent for the site. It is considered that their slim rising forms from east to west have potential to provide striking silhouettes along one of the key approaches to the city centre and provide a visual stop to the pedestrian axis. Viewed strategically they would be seen as part of the group of taller buildings that characterise the city centre and differentiate it from the rest of the city. Their location on a main gateway to the city centre is also considered compatible with the emerging tall buildings policy. They are also set to align with and frame the viaduct which will help to maintain the integrity of the listed structure.

Seven of the 16 viaduct arches to the west of the canal would be put into ancillary retail and leisure uses. The remainder would be left open to allow access through for pedestrians and vehicles. The viaduct is an impressive and robust structure. It is considered that the use of the arches would not detract from the character of the structure and in fact would help to celebrate the spaces.

They would enable the provision of a pedestrian route from Wellington Road along the top of the viaduct and to the north of the river, thereby fulfilling one of the aspirations of the UDP. There is already a commitment from the planning approval for the Wellington Place (Hermes) site north of the river to provide full pedestrian access to connect to the top of the railway viaduct when it comes into pedestrian use. The applicant for this site has confirmed that the eastern half of the viaduct landscaping proposals and a temporary pedestrian link beyond this area to Wellington Road would be provided with the development of the first residential block.

At the lower level the second phase of the office development (due to commence in 2009) would deliver the pocket park to be provided on the island site which would then trigger a commitment from the adjoining Wellington Place site to provide a low level footbridge link over the River Aire to the pocket park.

It is considered that the proposals aim to maximise the special waterside and listed viaduct features of this site for public use and enjoyment by creating 4 distinct public realm environments – the high level viaduct space providing unique views of the city skyline, the hard landscaped public square to the south of the viaduct encouraging spill out of retail and leisure uses within the arches to activate this area, the canalside area using the water as a focal point and the softer, greener environment of the island pocket park providing opportunities to enhance wildlife habitats and provide a “green lung” to the city.

When would the tower be starting then?

Im just looking at google earth now. How amazing: from Monkbridge/ Greenbank to Lumier; what a transformation there has and will be!!

The residentials are in later phases. The current phase is for one or two offices and all the site layout (roads, landscaping etc). This may be subject to change but that is the last I heard when they presented their outline plan to the plans panel.

Incidentally, I've been on an HBG site today (elsewhere in the country) as we are in sub-contract with them on that site, they are a really big outfit, and a good company to work with.

After the disappointment of not getting a 38 storey, 33 is still pretty good - glad to see we've retained a tall here. Will be interesting to see a master plan especially where the tower will be in relation to the Greenbank tower...

http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r109/phill_dvsn/IMAG5170.jpg Have you guys noticed the old subway thats been exposed again under Whitehall road when it linked the 2 halves of Monkbridge?

Hey up! I think the viaduct incorperation is a great idea. Just looking at holbeck on good earth now.Is that a viaduct that snaks round the east of what will the holbeck urban village? If so, couldnt soemthing be done with this? It's only think but surely soemthing exciting could come of it. By the way, Im off for a walk down to the Monkbridge forge site (as well as other places) on monday. Anyone fancy the walk?

So is this the report from the planning application;

http://www.leeds.gov.uk/moderngov/Published/C00000173/M00001087/AI00006818/DoncastersForge0602880.pdf

Is it only for outline planning permision or have I read it wrong?

That's correct, just for outline at this stage, which will give permission for the building layout and heights in principle, with all details, finishes etc still to be approved.

That's correct, just for outline at this stage, which will give permission for the building layout and heights in principle, with all details, finishes etc still to be approved.

As I read it, it is for outline planning permission and full approval for the first phase.

Seems like the City Island residents group are in on the act again.. raising objections, cant understand why they are complaing ? Didn't they have any searches done beforehand by their solicitors ? :bash: :ohno: Should imagine if they are complaining, objecting about this they will also be complaing and pulling their hair out about the City Island new phase next door.

Read bottom page 8 and page 9.

http://www.leeds.gov.uk/moderngov/Published/C00000173/M00001087/AI00006818/DoncastersForge0602880.pdf

What total fools. Surely they would have expected that developments around City Island will become more widespread in the next few years and surely with such developments occuring in the vicinity of City Island then it won't feel as isolated and surely house prices would improve drastically :| and as development increases with City Island being seen to be part of an expanded city centre as opposed to being out on a limb at present which if that would be the case then it would be much worse for City Island in the long run if it is to be a long term success. :ohno:

Although of course they definately do need that bridge right now and also there needs to be landscaping done to the area south of City Island although I believe that is part of the Monkbridge Forge scheme.

I also noticed from the application that the developers want to change the residential, commercial ratio from 70 resi, 30 % office to 60% office to 35% residential to 5% amenity uses.. Seems like the plans panel were impressed as this would create more B1 office space and approx 6000 jobs, Thats got to be good news !

...as this would create more B1 office space and approx 6000 jobs...

I know this is the common phrase, but it is wrong every time journos or PR people use it... building office does NOT creat jobs, apart from a few positions for cleaning ladies. As more people work from home one can say that apartments also create jobs lol :)

I don't think many people work from home, the technology is well in place but the change in culture hasn't kept up at all. I agree that it's unlikely that new offices would create many new jobs as they generally just cause a shuffle around; but, it is possible that a suitable large new development could atract a large company who are looking for a headquarters into the city, and can allow companies to expand in size.

Anyone else seen the "soon to be advertisment board" frame go up? It is facing the rail tracks. I would have though a few renders would be up there soon. Either that or a disapointing Monkbridge Forge sign with no graphics.

The advetisement boards facing the road are huge, and the foundations that support them are as big as a building's foundation; massive concrete blocks.

The site of the first office is definately ready to go, all excavated, backfilled and rolled flat.

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid225/p2abaf587d57b5faf0b3afc31ef785a3d/e9eb5dc8.jpg

good to see this development starting i have high hopes for this development and when it gets going it will strech the city further out think this will be a great development.

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This development - along with Greenbank and those on the Wellington Street site (not forgetting Lumiere) - then on t'other side of the tracks Granary Wharf/Tower Works and other Holbeck Village developments will have a very dramatic impact on the Western approach to Leeds city centre. I can't wait.

On the same website as the one with Wellington Place I had found this small render of part of the Monkbridge Forge site. Whilst a bit boxy and hard to tell what type of materials will be used in the cladding of this development and that this clearly looks like an office? Does anyone know what the composition of office and residential will be? Perhaps it will be office along Whitehall Road and residential on the old viaduct as a guess? Anyway here is the picture:

http://img208.imageshack.us/img208/175/monkbridgeforgecu7.png

Val Verde On the same website as the one with Wellington Place I had found this small render of part of the Monkbridge Forge site. Whilst a bit boxy and hard to tell what type of materials will be used in the cladding of this development and that this clearly looks like an office? Does anyone know what the composition of office and residential will be? Perhaps it will be office along Whitehall Road and residential on the old viaduct as a guess? Anyway here is the picture:


Yes from the last plans panel meeting, will comprise of 60% office space, 35% residential 5% other.. I think as in retail, without looking again I'm sure it was the developers that changed the ratio from 70% residential, thus creating more B1 office space. That can only be a good thing ! As it's not like Wellington Street and the surrounding area is short on residential space.

http://www.leeds.gov.uk/moderngov/Published/C00000173/M00001087/AI00006818/DoncastersForge0602880.pdf

There's a website for this development but, at the moment, it promises more than it delivers: www.latitudeleeds.com

I hate to sound picky but is there a chance that any time soon developers might come up with names for their sites that give some information or context? Imagine the confusion, by the way, if some poor business traveller was looking for Lateral and ended up at Latitude by mistake!

I hate to sound picky but is there a chance that any time soon developers might come up with names for their sites that give some information or context? Imagine the confusion, by the way, if some poor business traveller was looking for Lateral and ended up at Latitude by mistake!

Hear hear !

The picture doesnt bode well does it. What a boring design.The offices are meant to range from 8 to 12 storeys in my understanding. I was hoping for soemthing a littl emore imaginative. It looks like the advertising hoardings will go up soon though as all the billboards have been finished now. Hopefully there will be a few renders on that.

My kingdom for a decent render - especially the tower element!!

Personally i dont think it looks that bad, at least its not ugly. It's simple but with the new renders of wellington place looking rather jagged and funky this may stop the area looking a bit too bizarre.

On the same website as the one with Wellington Place I had found this small render of part of the Monkbridge Forge site. Whilst a bit boxy and hard to tell what type of materials will be used in the cladding of this development and that this clearly looks like an office? Does anyone know what the composition of office and residential will be? Perhaps it will be office along Whitehall Road and residential on the old viaduct as a guess? Anyway here is the picture:

http://img208.imageshack.us/img208/175/monkbridgeforgecu7.png

bit dull isn't it, oh well, there's so much development going on around here that it won't matter a jolt in the long run. Its only an office block I suppose, as long as the residential towers start looking interesting, then the scheme will earn its corn. Suppose I should practice what I preach and wait until we see more renders before passing judgement. Something stepping down to the canal and river might have been a bit more sympathetic.

aviator explained the planning process a couple of pages earlier - the site masterplan has outline planning, but as part of the planning app, I think it contained a full application for the first office block (exhibit A above your honour), which clearly seems to be the first building underway (unsurprisingly). Aha, Holmes-like deduction there.

Looks like typical office fare, plain but functional I suppose (and reasonably cheap).

They may be trying to contrast with all the red across the road, with the dark material finishes.

Apparently Crosby are the developer of the residential element of this scheme; 720 units in four towers from 15 - 32 floors. Hoping to start in September but will probably depend on pre sales, so if its anything like Greenbank, it may take a while! But Crosby have a good track record in Leeds and presumably still have a lot of confidence in the strength of the market.

Well, riverside apartments will sell. They know the market well having been involved with Clarence Dock; I think we can be confident of success if Crosby is involved.

Today I have noticed that the advertising hoardings on Monkbridge Forge or Latitude has gone up but sadly there are no new renders of the scheme to look at with only bizarre nonsense showing some baby eating a doughnut and dog as seen on their website http://www.latitudeleeds.com/intro.html? :wtf: :nuts: I wonder why such promotions have to be so unbelievably abstact? :bash:

This is such a crock o' shit. It worries me that no new renders have gone up. It makes me think it iwll be a bit cheap and rubish and not worth seeing.

They've only got planning details for the smallest office building, everything else is indicative at the moment, so they haven't really got any decent images to put up yet.

From the draft minutes of next week's City Centre Plans Panel:

Applications 06/02880/OT and 06/05718/FU - Outline application to erect a mixed use development comprising offices (class B1) residential (classC3), and ancillary retail and/or leisure uses (classes A1,A2,A3,A4,A5,D1 and D2) and a full application for the phase 1 development comprising an 8 storey office building with ancillary basement car parking - former Doncaster's Forge, Whitehall Road LS12

Further to minute 140 of the meeting held on 29th March 2007, a further report was submitted. Members had visited the site earlier in the day and had attended a workshop on the proposals

Plans, including details of the outline application which was agreed by Members in April 2005, photographs, artist’s impressions and two models were displayed at the meeting. Officers presented the application and the Civic Architect, Mr Thorp, explained the detailed application for the first phase of the development which was felt to be the benchmark in design for the remaining blocks in the development

The Panel was informed that the applicant had identified key areas within the site and given sufficient information to officers to demonstrate the provision of attractive public routes throughout the scheme, including a pocket park on the island site, a public frontage to the canal with some of the viaduct space being used for outdoor seating for the cafes and bars within the scheme....

Officers commended the scheme to Members as being a high quality development which would expand the city centre and its economy. Members discussed the following matters:
• design issues, particularly in respect of plant in relation to its siting and screening within the scheme which should not detract from the clean lines shown on the artist’s impression, and its design which should ensure it would not adversely affect residents
• proposed materials and the welcome use of gabions in the car parking scheme, especially if material from the former buildings on site could be used in this way
• that the existing street lamp on the bridge should be removed and replaced with a more elegant lamp across the bridge
• the long-term maintenance of the viaduct

Officers provided the following responses:
• that the Reserved Matters application, including the bridge would be brought back to Members for their determination
• that the developers would be responsible for the future maintenance of the viaduct and that this would be controlled by condition

RESOLVED –
To approve the application in principle and defer and delegate the final decision to the Chief Planning Officer subject to the conditions specified in the submitted report, additional conditions to cover the comments raised in the report by the Nature Conservation Officer, (and such other conditions as he may consider appropriate) and following the completion of a Section 106 Agreement to cover the following matters:
- Co-operation with local employment/training initiatives
- Provision of off-site highway improvement works
- Provision of public transport improvement measures
- Maintaining public access through the site
- Future expansion of the existing traffic regulation orders if the development is causing on-street parking problems
- Provision of affordable housing
- Improvements of the canal towpath adjoining the site to enable enhanced access
- Allowing pedestrian access connections to the top of the eastern end of the viaduct from the adjoining Wellington Place site
- Allowing the landing of a low level footbridge over the River Aire (to be provided by the Wellington Place proposals) within the proposed pocket
park

While this is obviously good news, the points I've highlighted in bold are worth considering. It can be frustrating not to see clear and detailed renders of proposals under considerations but we seem to have used this lack of hard information to reach the conclusion that this is going to be a rubbish development.

The Civic Architect and planning officers are not employed to use extravagant hyperbole so I think their opinion that this is a class act is one that might be worth listening to until we can offer our informed opinions.

Inspired by you efforts, Aviator, I managed to find a slightly bigger image of the existing render.

http://www.enviros.com/PDF/Services/HBG%20Properties%20–%20Latitude%20-%20Contam.%20&%20Regulatory%20Advisor_lr.pdf

my god thats a boring building.

..

it's better than grey plastic lol

it's nothing special but at least there's plenty of glass.

True and you know my feelings on the gray plastic look!!

Today I have noticed that the advertising hoardings on Monkbridge Forge or Latitude has gone up but sadly there are no new renders of the scheme to look at with only bizarre nonsense showing some baby eating a doughnut and dog

Mmmmm - doughnut and dog...

I thought i'd post this view of the Central viaduct with barge for added interest i took today... Why does nothing seem to be happening here?

http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r109/phill_dvsn/ThePhoenixhasrisen-1.jpg

^^ nice shot, the angler looks a little narked, and yes, the site is a bit dead isn't it, but I think we can see that HBG are about to kick off. The site offices are lined up in their garish livery, and the ground is cleared and ready for kick off. They have already stated that this is due for delivery in 2008, so won't be that long till get a-a-a-a-going!

P.S. nice to see the canal full again, sure it was half empty last summer.

Inspired by you efforts, Aviator, I managed to find a slightly bigger image of the existing render.

http://www.enviros.com/PDF/Services/HBG%20Properties%20–%20Latitude%20-%20Contam.%20&%20Regulatory%20Advisor_lr.pdf

Clever of you to find this, di Livio, and I seem to be the only one on here who doesn't think the building is boring.

no i quite like it aswell

before this view disapears:

http://i166.photobucket.com/albums/u85/jinky-org/monky.jpg

The site seemed quiet the other day, at least in the foreground where planning permission has been given for the first building (to be called Red, apparently). There was, however, plenty of clearing work going on towards the railway line at the far end of the site, to the far right in Orgoglioso's picture above.



http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a178/apm22/23%20May%202007/P1010041.jpg?t=1180099615

before this view disapears:

http://i166.photobucket.com/albums/u85/jinky-org/monky.jpg


This shot really makes Greenbank and Monkbridge look a neighbouring pair, I know they're across the road from each other but that photo makes the two sites look like a distinct and exclusive little neighbourhood. They must be quite crucial to each other to ensure the whole area becomes well developed.

When they're both finished with a 33 storey tower on each, as well as various mid-rise residential blocks and the red, green etc office blocks, it'll be like a mini city centre on it's own!

Piling is underway at last on the first office site, with a large drilling rig on site (similar in size to the one at Granary Wharf).

Would I be right in saying this development no longer has a 38 storey tower in it. If so, shouldn't a new thread be started called something like 'Rather boring black building with lots of glass on it and that'.

..

Yes, the scheme is called 'Latitude', that includes the four office buildings, the park and the 33 storey residential tower.

It's very quiet on here today, where is everyone? only two threads have replies today, the Sheffield forum has had 12 threads answered today.

It's very quiet on here today, where is everyone? only two threads have replies today, the Sheffield forum has had 12 threads answered today.

Just what I was thinking Rob!

(That's one more to add to the tally...)

Would I be right in saying this development no longer has a 38 storey tower in it. If so, shouldn't a new thread be started called something like 'Rather boring black building with lots of glass on it and that'.

Have you seen renders of the proposed development?

I also wondered why it was quiet, but was nothing to reply to, but Ive been around all day lol. Im not around tomorrow coz Im in town :) That will be fun.

38 down to 33 is still of consderable height!

Have you seen renders of the proposed development?

Yes, it showed a rather boring black building with lots of glass on it and that, however if there is still a 33 storey tower on site than maybe a name change isn't so necessary. Any renders of this 33 storey tower or is it mostly similar to the Bronze-ish tower we've already seen?

There's actually about four residential buildings all positioned behind the disused viaduct, ranging up to 33 stories. There's no images yet, and we don't know how tall the other buildings are going to be.

There's actually about four residential buildings all positioned behind the disused viaduct, ranging up to 33 stories. There's no images yet, and we don't know how tall the other buildings are going to be.

Ah, my mistake, I think I was confusing it a bit with the Greenbank site. There is however that render of the black building that someone posted a few pages back, just no sight of the tower.

The black block is one of four office blocks (around 8 to 10 floors) that are to sit in front of the disused viaduct.

Whether they'll actually look that dull and black remains to be seen, but the first one has started now, so we'll know soon enough.

http://img208.imageshack.us/img208/175/monkbridgeforgecu7.png

Ah, my mistake, I think I was confusing it a bit with the Greenbank site. There is however that render of the black building that someone posted a few pages back, just no sight of the tower.

This is the only decent sniff we've had on this development in terms of visuals(makes sniffing noise)

http://www.hbgproperties.co.uk/projects/current/latitude.html

This is the only decent sniff we've had on this development in terms of visuals(makes sniffing noise)

http://www.hbgproperties.co.uk/projects/current/latitude.html

It appears to me looking at that render that the whole development is to be low rise with nothing over 10 storeys. Does this mean that there is to be no high rise as part of this development or is this high rise to be on the island between the River Aire and Leeds Liverpool canals and thus is out of shot? Still at least it is good that development is coninuing apace as the first phase is due to be completed for 2008.

http://www.hbgproperties.co.uk/projects/current/images/latitude_2.jpg

This one is an early model of the scheme and only had towers up to around 20 floors. The addition of a tower up to 33 floors is newer and is the scheme that has been submitteed for planning permission. The office part is the same I believe, and the island bit will be a mini public park.

The http://www.hbgproperties.co.uk/proje.../latitude.html site seems a little outdates.

According to the plans pannel report: http://www.leeds.gov.uk/moderngov/Published/C00000173/M00001089/$$ADocPackPublic.pdf, (page 74) there would be 5 buildings south of the viaduct apparently. I assume this means 4 office blocks though, ranging from 6 to 12 stories.

The high rise units behind the bridge would range from 15 to 33 floors.

Piling is underway at last on the first office site, with a large drilling rig on site (similar in size to the one at Granary Wharf).



http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a178/apm22/30%20May%202007/P1010105.jpg?t=1180643733



http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a178/apm22/30%20May%202007/P1010107.jpg?t=1180643771

thanks for all your photo updates aviator.

The ground seems so well prepared and raked over it almost looks like a gravel driveway.

I'm loving all this on site action!

http://www.skyscrapernews.com/buildings.php?id=1008
http://www.skyscrapernews.com/bdbsearch.php?city=Leeds

Just really a simple point here, that skyscrapernews lists Monkbridge Forge as "Vision" when its Approved isnt it? or if not, then its certainly more than a vision because of the ground works.

I think you're right, it has now had an outline application made, so should increase it's status.

Ah good. The fact piling has started on some of the other office blocks, and the whole site is prepared (is it?) would mean it is quite likely to get built. I would think the City Council would support a neighbouring tower to support Greenbank at the end of the Whitehall Road axis.

The Council are supportive of the tower, and have defended it against a few complaints that have been received (from City Island residents).

As for the works carried out to date, I'm not sure how much work was done behind the viaduct where all the residentials will go.

Oh its pathetic when city centre residents complain about new buildings. What do they expect when theyre moving into one of the fastest growing city centres in the UK. Most of them have moved into developments that have blocked views from previous developments anyway.

lol. here here!

..

Hadnt seen this before


Green light for prestigious mixed use city development

Exclusive

LATITUDE, the largest city centre mixed use development to date in Leeds, has been given the go-ahead, and work on 600,000sq-ft of prestige commercial office accommodation, in addition to more than 700 apartments, has begun.

The development, at Monk Bridge, off Whitehall Road, will see the first building completed in late 2008. The scheme will also create one of the largest green spaces and parkland in the city centre for many years.

The project is being driven by HBG Properties, part of the multi-billion pound construction and property services group HBG UK, and the team behind the Lateral office development in the city centre – one of the country's most successful commercial property projects of 2005.

"Latitude is not only the biggest project ever undertaken by HBG, it is also the biggest development of its kind in Leeds to date," said Ian Pennington, regional director of HBG Properties and Latitude's project director.

"The growth of Leeds over the past few years has been phenomenal, creating a huge number of new jobs and new companies working in the city. However, we are rapidly running out of new office accommodation in the city centre which could hamper the city's continued rise through international rankings.

"The first buildings in the Latitude development will be available precisely at the time when the Leeds commercial agent community predicts that premium office space will be needed most," he added.

Latitude will consist of five separate buildings offering high specification Grade A office accommodation in excess of 100,000sq ft each plus associated car parking. Enabling and reclamation works have already begun for Latitude Red, the first building in the development.

Following delivery of Latitude Red, work will start on the remaining four buildings – called Blue, Yellow, Purple and Silver – which will provide a continuous stream of prestige office accommodation for the next six years.

In addition to the 600,000sq ft of office space, Crosby Lend Lease – the parent company of Crosby Homes – has taken on responsibility for delivering more than 700 one- and two-bedroom apartments.

A number of retail and leisure units will also be created at Latitude.

The entire development will be extensively landscaped.


http://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/business?articleid=2902045

Same newsfrom Building magazine

HBG navigates £180m Latitude through Leeds planning
4 May 2007

By Lydia Stockdale

City council grants permission for 600,000 sq ft mixed-use development

HBG Properties was granted outline planning permission for its £180m Latitude scheme by Leeds City Council last week.

The mixed-use scheme consists of 600,000 sq ft (55,741 sq m) of office space and more than 700 flats in Leeds city centre.

There will also be retail and leisure units. The entire development will be extensively landscaped and a significant Green space for leisure will be created between the River Aire and the Leeds-Liverpool canal, which bounds the eastern edge of the development.

The core element of the scheme is the phased development of five office buildings, of more than 100,000 sq ft (9,290 sq m) each. Every building at Latitude will have around 100 parking spaces.

The first building to be developed will be Latitude Red, a 120,000 sq ft (11,148 sq m) office, which was last week given detailed consent. Enabling works have begun on site and building is set for completion in late 2008.

Following completion of Latitude Red, work will begin on the remaining four buildings: Blue, Yellow, Purple and Silver. They will provide a continuous stream of grade A office space for the next six years.

‘Leeds is a market we know extremely well,’ said Ian Pennington, regional director of HBG Properties and Latitude’s project director. ‘Our last project in the city, the 100,000 sq ft Lateral building, was prelet by a single occupier and ultimately sold for a 4.95% yield.

‘We have similar expectations for the six-times-bigger Latitude project.’

The outline planning permission was granted subject to a section 106 agreement. HBG Properties is one of six developers in the West End Partnership, which will be launched officially in September Members of the partnership will work together with Leeds City Council to fund public realm projects in the areas around Wellington Street and Whitehall Road.

Crosby Lend Lease, the parent company of Crosby Homes, will develop more than 700 one- and two-bedroom flats within HBG Properties’ Latitude scheme.

Getting busier:



http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a178/apm22/13%20June%202007/P1010175.jpg?t=1181768924



http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a178/apm22/13%20June%202007/P1010174.jpg?t=1181768956

There is an orange crane base now, excellent news. Must be getting another erection soon. NO inuendoes please (oh go on then- but only if it is subliving).

There is an orange crane base now, excellent news. Must be getting another erection soon. NO inuendoes please (oh go on then- but only if it is subliving).

I can't think of any orange crane innuendoes...

Subliving.

hahahha, classic

i bet that hole has turn its a bit of a lake too following all the recent rain! i would hate to be a ground worker in the current weather its just gona be a mud bath

Today with the crane base:

http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x194/Leeds_John/IMG_3315.jpg

http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x194/Leeds_John/IMG_3316.jpg

http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x194/Leeds_John/IMG_3317.jpg