A planning application to build 164 flats on a site near Leeds Dock in Hunslet has been deferred because of the lack of ‘affordable housing’ and greenspace in the scheme.
The project to build an 18-storey block on a small site on Sayner Lane, behind the University Technical College, was discussed by the City Plans Panel on Thursday (8 May 2025).
Leeds planning policy says that market rented developments like this should include either 7%, 12 of the 164 flats in this case, let at social rents or intermediate rents; or 20% (33 flats) let at 80% or lower of the market rent level.
The Developer, Countrylarge, said the scheme project was unviable with these units and asked for an exemption. The District Valuer appraised the scheme on behalf of the council and came to the same conclusion.
The scheme has very limited public open space. In these circumstances a commuted sum is usually paid by the developer to support other local greenspaces. In this case an offsite green space contribution was calculated at £206,937.51, but this too was deemed unaffordable and officers recommended accepting a reduced figure of £31,860, on the basis that greenspace was, or soon would be accessible nearby at Aire Park, Points Cross and the riverside.
The provision of only three parking spaces was discussed with concerns that residents would park on adjoining streets which are already very busy. Officers defended the position as being in line with policies to reduce car usage in and around the city centre.
When it came to the vote, only two councillors backed the plan, with 8 voting against. A second proposal to defer the application was carried unanimously.
The developer was asked to work with officers to address the panel’s concerns about the lack of affordable housing and lack of greenspace and consider potential for structural changes to address those concerns.
You can read the report to panel here and view the presentation slides here
You watch the meeting here, the discussion on Sayner Lane starts at 5mins:
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