Construction is started on a new housing development that will introduce fifty high-quality, affordable homes to Leeds.
These homes are being built on a previously industrial brownfield site off Moorfield Road in Armley, which was once the site of the Tower Works factory. The project will feature a mix of 27 houses and 23 apartments, all designated for affordable or social rent. Yorkshire Housing is leading the development in collaboration with Termrim Construction, supported by Leeds City Council and Homes England.
With funding assistance from the council, this project aims to significantly enhance the quality of life for residents in a community with substantial housing demands. The project is set to contribute significantly to the increase in Leeds’ supply of affordable homes, which is expected to grow by an additional 750 units this year following record construction levels in 2023. This increase is a result of collaborative efforts between housing associations and direct initiatives by the council.
The first homes on this long-vacant and derelict site are slated for completion in February 2025. Priority for all initial tenancies, and 60 percent of subsequent leases — will be given to applicants on the council’s housing register. The development includes a diverse mix of one, two, three, and four-bedroom homes, all constructed to meet high energy-efficiency standards. Of these, 18 homes will be designated for social rent, while the remaining 32 will be offered at affordable rental rates.
Councillor Jess Lennox, Leeds City Council’s executive member for housing said:
“The delivery of new affordable housing is one of the cornerstones of our work to tackle inequality and improve quality of life for people in communities across Leeds. These new homes will address local housing needs in Armley and will also, thanks to their energy efficient design, support the council’s net zero ambitions.
“Furthermore, the scheme will align with wider regeneration activity, both in Armley and other parts of the city, by taking a piece of vacant, derelict land and making it a desirable and attractive place to live.”
Anthony Askew, head of construction at Yorkshire Housing said:
“We are committed to delivering a range of affordable homes across Yorkshire, especially in areas of high need such as Armley. With 100 per cent affordable housing, this brownfield development will provide the area with much-needed housing supply and an opportunity for people to move into high-quality homes. We have an aim of delivering 8,000 new affordable homes across Yorkshire to help ease the housing crisis and this site takes us closer to achieving that target.”
Jason McGarvey, commercial director at Termrim Construction said:
“Following the completion of the enabling works phase at the old Tower Works site at Armley, we have made great progress with the installation of the new roads and sewers alongside foundations and retaining walls.
“Design and procurement for the superstructure elements has also progressed well with the superstructure masonry commencing imminently. As always, it is great to work with the Yorkshire Housing team on this important development delivering a mix of new affordable houses and apartments to the Yorkshire region.”
The council is allocating up to £750,000 to fund the project, sourced from Leeds’s commuted sums funding stream. This funding mechanism aggregates financial contributions from developers, collected through planning agreements, to support the delivery of affordable housing. The term ‘brownfield’ refers to previously developed land that is currently not in use, presenting opportunities for redevelopment such as the ongoing regeneration at the former Tower Works site.
Leeds is proactive in addressing the diverse housing needs of its population. Alongside new development, the city is renovating existing properties to meet modern standards of living. These renovations are crucial in preserving the architectural heritage of Leeds while ensuring that all housing is safe, comfortable, and suitable for contemporary living.
Looking to the future, Leeds is poised to continue its trajectory as a leader in innovative housing solutions. With plans to expand housing developments, integrate smart technology, and enhance community amenities, the city is committed to providing homes that meet the needs of its growing population.
The ongoing transformation in Leeds not only reflects the city’s dynamic approach to urban development but also its dedication to creating sustainable and inclusive communities. As Leeds continues to grow, it remains a beacon of how cities can evolve to meet the challenges of the 21st century, ensuring that all residents have access to affordable, high-quality, and sustainable living options www.leedshomes.org.uk
