Start on site for redevelopment of iconic Tower Works

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Work has started on site to transform an historic Leeds factory once owned by one of the founding fathers of the industrial revolution in the region into a mixed-use site.

The first phase of work at Tower Works will see clearance and demolition of areas of the site, followed by the refurbishment of the listed buildings onsite, including the complex's three existing towers.

The redevelopment will create office accommodation to complement the Round Foundry Media Centre currently run by Yorkshire Forward, and will commence early next year.

The first phase will create public space which will enhance pedestrian links between Holbeck Urban Village and Leeds city centre.

Regional development agency Yorkshire Forward is investing £19.8m in the project at the site in Holbeck Urban Village in Leeds, which was originally built in the 19th century and was owned by Colonel Thomas Harding.

Its distinctive towers, modelled on the Giotto tower in Florence and the Lamberti tower in Verona, have been landmarks on the city's skyline since they were built and served as chimneys for the former pin factory at the site.

The third plain tower, built as part of Harding's final phase of expansion in 1919, is thought to represent a Tuscan tower house. All three are listed structures, the two ornate towers being grade two* listed and the plain tower grade two listed.

The first phase of the Tower Works project will enable future phases of redevelopment to be presented to the market in order to attract private sector investment.

Terry Hodgkinson, chairman of Yorkshire Forward , said: "We welcome this funding decision from Government and see this as an opportunity to put regeneration back into the skyline of Leeds City Centre.

"We have maintained that, wherever possible, we will work to ensure that our region's key regeneration schemes continue to progress. By undertaking this first phase of development, Yorkshire Forward is creating a first class opportunity for private investment to support the delivery of future phases of the scheme."

Councillor Andrew Carter, joint leader of Leeds City Council, said:

"The vision for Holbeck Urban Village is starting to become a reality with several developments due for completion before Christmas, including the 'Light' Neville Street project, Granary Wharf and the newly opened City Inn Hotel.

"Tower Works is the next piece in the jigsaw and will open up further opportunities for investors, businesses and residents alike, connecting through to the Round Foundry and Marshall's Mill.

"This is a key milestone for the project and we are delighted to see it come to fruition."

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