Leeds chooses developer for former swimming pool site

Leeds City Council has named its preferred developer for the £270m redevelopment of the city’s former International Swimming Pool.

Marrico Asset Management and Helios Real Estate have been selected as the preferred developer for the 2.8 acre site on Lisbon Street.

Marrico and Helios intend to submit a planning application by the end of the year to deliver ‘Lisbon Square’, a high-quality mixed-used development of 500 student apartments, 400 residential apartments, a 300-bed hotel, and 150,000 square-feet of office space.

Marrico and Helios intend to submit a planning application by the end of the year for the site, which has been used as a Council car park since the pool’s demolition in 2009. If planning permission is granted, work would begin in 2021.

The development could form a key part of further investment and resurgence in the west end of the city centre.

In January, planning permission was secured for a 17-storey office development on neighbouring Wellington Street, along with the major redevelopment of Wellington Place.

‘We are excited by the Lisbon Square proposals, which would transform the former pool site and play a key role in bringing more investment and growth into the west end of the city centre,’ said deputy council leader, Cllr James Lewis.

‘The development would support our efforts to double the size of the city centre, helping to boost the wider city economy by providing more jobs and opportunities, while at the same time providing a vibrant, world-class public space. The funds from selling the site would also support the delivery of crucial council services and tackling the budget gap we face.’

Marrico’s managing partner Mark Barnes added: ‘We are delighted to have been chosen by Leeds City Council to develop this site. This highlights our expanding development profile and ability to maintain momentum despite current economic challenges. This achievement is a testament to the commitment and professionalism of our team.

‘Since selection we have spent the intervening period refining our design to meet the changing needs of the market. The result is a scheme which would be a major asset to the city. We face challenges in the current environment but we are confident that our design will be compatible with market demands going forward.’

Photo Credit – 12019 (Pixabay)