Plans submitted for grade two-listed Cloth Hall Court refurb
Led by GSS Architecture, the project sees the upper floors of the building refurbished for the University of Leeds, with proposals seeking to transform vacant space into a conference and events facility.
The scheme will see levels three and four of the historic building reconfigured to create a range of flexible event and hospitality spaces, expanding the venue’s commercial offer and bringing currently underutilised accommodation back into active use.
Leeds-based GSS is working alongside Bellrock Consulting, HEXA Consulting Engineers, and Couch Perry Wilkes on the project.
The plans include the creation of a dining space capable of accommodating up to 170 guests, two adaptable event spaces, a dedicated reception area and the refurbishment of an existing lecture theatre.
The design team has sought to retain and celebrate the building’s heritage significance while introducing modern facilities capable of supporting a wide range of commercial events. Existing materials and building elements have also been incorporated into the design as part of the University’s wider sustainability objectives.
Located in the heart of Leeds city centre, Cloth Hall Court already operates as a conference and events venue on its lower floors. The latest proposals would complete the building’s transformation into a fully functioning events hub while creating an additional revenue-generating asset for the University.
The university bought the building from fellow educational institution Leeds Beckett for circa £8m in 2020.
A decision on the application is expected later this year.
Alex Proctor, project partner, commented: “It’s fantastic to be working in the city centre on such a prominent and historic street. As the higher education landscape continues to evolve, projects like this demonstrate how we can support universities in adapting their estates to ensure long-term sustainability.
“Drawing on our team’s expertise in reimagining listed buildings, I look forward to seeing this exciting project come to life.”
Bellrock senior director, David Blakey, said: “This project represents a sensitive and thoughtful revitalisation of an iconic grade two-listed building, balancing heritage preservation with the creation of a high-quality, commercially viable conference facility.”
