Defence Online

Emerging plans have been unveiled for a new skyscraper close to the first direct arena in Leeds which would become the tallest building in the city and wider Yorkshire region if developed.Knightsbridge Capital (Leeds) is behind proposals for a 40-storey tower on the site of Hume House on Wade Lane, along the road from the Merrion Centre and in the heart of the city’s Arena Quarter.The building, designed by Nick Brown Architects, would be clad in Yorkshire Gritstone, subject to costing, and is likely to comprise primarily student accommodation with commercial space at ground-floor level.It is proposed to demolish the existing property at the location, which was acquired from Ace Liberty & Stone earlier this year for £3.55m, and to construct a 126 metre tower in a similar position to Hume House.At 112 metres, Bridgewater Place (above) is currently the tallest building in Leeds. The 37-storey Sky Plaza standing at the junction of Clay Pit Lane and the Inner Ring Road, is the tallest building in the immediate vicinity at 106 metres.According to documents relating to a pre-application presentation scheduled for next week, the proposed building would most probably be given over to student accommodation, housing between 750 and 800 student rooms.Approximately half of the ground floor (2,370 sq ft) would comprise commercial space and the remainder of that level together with the first and second floors would accommodate student amenities including a reception area, a dining room, lounge, laundry, library and cinema room.A gym is identified at level 39 while level 40 would primarily house plant.The development would create the opportunity to enhance the public realm in the area.