Housing giants push next East Leeds phase

Redrow and Taylor Wimpey are seeking outline consent for up to 925 homes within the southern quadrant of the large-scale housing masterplan.

The plans, to be heard by Leeds City Council’s north and east plans panel on 24 August, also include a 6.4-acre community hub, which could comprise a primary school, convenience store and health provision.

The East Leeds Extension area is a 575-acre plot where up to 5,000 homes could be delivered in the coming years around the edges of Swarcliffe, Whinmoor and Crossgates.

New infrastructure including the East Leeds Orbital Road (ELOR) has been built to enable the delivery of housing. Applications currently in the planning pipeline include 360 homes at Red Hall and a reserved matters application for 463 homes at Whinmoor Fields in the northern quadrant, where 51 homes have been built out.

In June, a further Taylor Wimpey scheme came forward, co-promoted with Cullen Land, covering close to 300 homes in the middle quadrant; while Vistry and Evans Property Group are also advancing ELE plans.

Johnson Mowat is advising on planning matters. The professional team also includes transport advisor Optima, while Lichfields has advised on economic impact.

This application – a large chunk of housing even in ELE terms – was presented to the panel in autumn 2022 as a position statement, and now returnas following feedback and the suggestion of conditions.

Planning officers note that the contributions required as apert of the housebuilders’ Section 106 agreement will be led by a £20.6m contribution to the ELOR; adding that the expected provision of affordable housing across the site will be set at 15%.

Officers also suggest that close to five acres be set aside for the primary school site, while a further significant contribution is £292,000 for cycling improvements.

In conclusion, officers recommend that members go along with the previously agreed deferral to the chief planning officer to determine approval, stating that “the proposed development will assist in bringing forward a significant amount of much needed housing on an allocated housing site” adding that the affordable housing volume is policy-compliant, that sustainability requirements will be met and that the proposed means of access into the site are able to be made acceptable.

Officers add: “The development makes use of, and enhances existing public rights of way, for the benefit of future occupiers and residents of the wider area. The promotion and use of good quality walking and cycling routes will promote healthy living choices, sustainable transport modes and reduce the need to rely on the private car.”

Further, it is pointed out, that the volume of green space proposed far exceeds the policy requirement.

The plans can be viewed on Leeds’ planning portal at 21/08379/OT.