A £62m project to redevelop a number of listed former council buildings off Millennium Square has been given the green light.

Idé Real Estate secured planning and listed building consent for the Northern Civic Quarter scheme from Leeds City Council at a meeting yesterday (6 December 2018), subject to completion of a Section 106 agreement.

Insider reported last week (30 November), that the council’s planning officer had recommended the application were given the go-ahead.

The proposed development will bring the Thoresby, Leonardo and Great George Street buildings back into use.

A 54,000 sq ft flexible office and multifunctional space will be developed around the Thoresby and Leonardo buildings, formerly a Victorian school and print works, will be created. A 173-bed premium lifestyle hotel will be created in the 2 Great George Street building, also a former Victorian school, while a new 166-bed lifestyle hotel will also be built.

The plans also include new public realm and two new open and accessible courtyards.

Ronan Faherty, chief executive of Idé Real Estate, said: “We have been working closely with Leeds City Council and other city region stakeholders on our proposals and are delighted to have secured planning permission and listed building consent for our development.

“We specialise in heritage buildings because of their history and architecture and their contribution to a diverse and rich environment. Heritage buildings can bring their challenges but we enjoy regenerating and reenergising them to provide a sustainable future.

“We work in partnership with local councils and operators and Leeds is a perfect example of this approach. We have been impressed with Leeds City Council and its vision for inclusive growth.

“We believe Leeds is one of the best investment opportunities in the UK today with its welcoming people, strong institutions, dynamic business community and vibrant cultural life, a position endorsed by Channel 4’s decision to locate its national headquarters in the city.”

Planning consultancy Turley advised on planning, strategic communications, sustainability, economics and heritage aspects of the development proposals.

Site preparation is set to begin in spring with the major development work underway by autumn. It is scheduled for completion by summer 2022.