Plans for a state-of-the-art £75m landmark creative arts building opposite the Civic Hall in Leeds city centre look set to be approved after being deferred to the chief planning officer.
The creative arts development for Leeds Beckett University is a joint venture between property developer Downing and the university following their successful redevelopment of an old Leeds Metropolitan University site into student accommodation.
Opposite the Civic Hall and on the corner of Portland Way and Calverley Street, the building will become a new home for the School of Film, Music & Performing Arts, which includes the Northern Film School and the School of Art, Architecture & Design's fashion provision.
It will include specialist facilities including a 216-seat Dolby Atmos cinema, a TV studio and three large film studios as well as a green screen studio.
The plans are set to go before the Leeds City Council's City plans panel on 10 August and it has been recommended that the decision be deferred and delegated to the chief planning officer for approval subject to the completion of a section 106 agreement.
The chief planning officer's report said: "The development would bring forward high quality, contemporary, architecture in an improved landscaped setting that responds positively to the character and appearance of the neighbouring conservation area and the setting of nearby listed buildings."
It added: "Consequently, it is considered that the proposal accords with the development plan and is acceptable subject to a section 106 agreement."
The section 106 agreement would consist of a travel plan monitoring fee of £2,750; a contribution of £7,500 for a Traffic Regulation Order in relation to revisions to highway arrangements on Calverley Street and a contribution of £3,000 towards trial membership and usage of the car club.
As part of the agreement the developers would also contribute £4,800 towards off-site tree planting, and employment and training plan and a section 106 management fee.
A statement on the Leeds Beckett University website said: "The Creative Arts building will provide a new city landmark, elevating the visibility of the university at this important city location and providing a resource that we believe will contribute to the creative economy in Leeds.
"The scale and stature of the building will ensure that it complements the city scape and makes a positive contribution to Leeds’ bid as the European Capital of Culture 2023.
"The building will become a gateway to the planned Leeds Innovation District, which will provide a catalyst for the productive, sustainable and inclusive economic development for the city."
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