Carillion closes £80m Tower Works deal

Tower Works is an old mill in Holbeck Urban Village on Leeds’ South Bank, with three prominent Italianate Towers that are being preserved within the new mixed-use development.

Carillion will build 8,300m² of commercial office space on the 1.17 hectare site, along with 2,200m² of retail, restaurant and bar spaces along with 147 apartments and town houses.

Carillion was named preferred bidder for the project in March 2015. A site-wide masterplan will now be submitted for planning approval in the next few weeks, with the aim of starting construction in spring 2016.

Carillion development director Gareth Jackson said: “We’re delighted to sign this deal with the HCA, bringing us another step closer to delivering the regeneration of Tower Works. Our team has been working closely with Leeds City Council and its stakeholders to develop a scheme very much of its place - a high-quality and modern response to one of Leeds’ best-loved historic sites.”

Leeds city councillor Richard Lewis said: “Tower Works really is one of the most important of Leeds’ landmarks, with its beautiful Italian towers representing both our rich industrial heritage and our commitment to drive the city forward in a sustainable and imaginative way.  This proposed new development could enhance existing plans for Holbeck Urban Village and the wider South Bank area and act as a catalyst for further regeneration.”

Carillion is also preferred bidder to develop the listed Engine House complex at the centre of the Tower Works site, which will form part of the overall masterplan and is expected to house an art-house cinema and boutique brewery.

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