Echo Central | U/C | 46m & 31m | 15fl & 10fl

[Skychaser 2005]

The Echo sounds superb for Leeds

PLANS to create a £100m flagship development at the heart of regeneration plans for the Richmond Hill area of Leeds have taken a significant step forward.
Leeds-based developer Rushbond – previously responsible for the city centre Brewery Wharf regeneration scheme as well as the new BBC Building and Leeds College of Music – has joined forces with housebuilder Barratt (Leeds) to create the mixed-use project, to be known as Echo.
It occupies one of the most important gateway sites on the eastern approach to Leeds and, when complete, will create over 450 apartments and 60,000 sq ft of commercial space.
The developers say the project will also include a small area of parkland.
Development
The first phase of development has already begun on site and Leeds City Council has recently granted detailed planning approval on the next phase.
This latest approval has been described as "particularly significant" by the developers as it it paves the way for work to begin on what will be the scheme's most prominent building.
A 12-storey tower block, fronting onto East Street, will provide 9,782 sq m of space and will be home to 163 one and two-bedroom apartments with basement parking for residents.
It has been designed by Wakefield-based DLA Architecture.
Jonathan Maud, managing director of Rushbond, said: "We are delighted to be moving ahead with this extremely important project for Leeds. We have worked on a wide range of sizeable schemes but this is one of the most significant to date.
"We hope this development will provide a dramatic and eye-catching focal point for this part of Leeds and help to kick start the strategic regeneration of the surrounding area."
Mr Maud said he hoped that the design-led inspiration for the scheme would have a "dramatic and positive effect" – creating a prominent and dynamic landmark.
Chris Burton, managing director of Barratt (Leeds), added: "Echo is one of the largest developments in the city and certainly one of the most significant on this eastern approach.
"Ultimately our aim is to develop a scheme that a wide range of people are attracted to – thus creating a vibrant and diverse community in this once-forgotten part of the city."
Construction work on the first phase has now begun on site and Barratt is already taking reservations on properties. Work on the next phase is due to commence during the summer.


YEP 28 March 2006
The East End is certainly growing in stature.It going to have a real cluster of developments to rival what is happening on the West End side of the City Centre.