Leeds city centre is set to welcome a new addition to its skyline as local developer Citylife secures planning approval for a 30-storey tower at Springwell Gardens. Initially envisioned as a 46-storey structure, the project faced a redesign following the city council’s reservations about its height.

The revised plan, which now features a 30-storey building, also sees a reduction in the number of residential units from 402 to 345. This development will rise on the grounds where the steel-framed Cartwright House once stood, marking a significant stride in the second phase of the Springwell Gardens scheme.

Citylife’s design for the tower includes modern amenities like a sky garden and a rooftop terrace, promising a blend of urban living with a touch of nature. Although the original plan boasted a structure that could have become Yorkshire’s tallest skyscraper, the negotiations with the council led to a scaled-down yet forward-thinking design.

Leeds council members, while supportive of the tower’s location, voiced concerns regarding the initially proposed 46-storey height. The compromise ensures the project aligns with the preferred area specifications for tall buildings in the city.

Springwell Gardens’ first phase, a 16-storey tower with 223 residential units, is currently under construction by Morgan Sindall, with Nick Brown Architects helming the design for both the initial and newly approved phases of the development.

This approval not only signifies a notable advancement in Leeds’ architectural landscape but also highlights the collaborative efforts between Citylife, the council, and other stakeholders in shaping a balanced urban development for the community.