Landmark Castlevale LLP - Mixed-Use Development - Wakefield, South Kirkby
Date: 28 Jan 2008
A planning application has been submitted for a multi-million pound mixed-use development at Langthwaite Grange Industrial Estate in South Kirkby, Wakefield. Yorkshire joint venture company, Landmark Castlevale LLP has submitted the proposals to Wakefield Metropolitan District Council to progress essential development of the second phase at the business park.
The application proposes speculative development of 19 acres of employment land supported by five acres of residential development. If planning is granted Landmark Castlevale LLP hopes to start construction early summer 2008 with completion anticipated early 2009.
Over recent years both the Local Authority, Wakefield First and private sector companies have succeeded in improving the standing of Langthwaite Grange Industrial Estate. As a result the area is now more attractive to potential occupiers; however there are still significant obstacles remaining to further regeneration which Landmark Castlevale LLP's application seeks to resolve.
While recent investment in the first phase of development on the site has successfully attracted a number of new occupiers meaning there are few existing buildings now available for sale or to let, there is no land currently available for potential occupiers wanting to design and build premises to their individual requirements.
Richard Morton, Director of Landmark Castlevale LLP comments: "It is my belief that the area has lost out in terms of major new occupiers to other locations due to there being no planning consent or indeed access to the second phase site which has been earmarked by the Local Authorities for employment uses. In addition to opening up land to design and build opportunities we also intend to provide a range of modern high quality starter units, either to buy or to rent, for local occupiers or start up businesses as well as improving highway access.
"I am convinced that if we can legally commit to the construction so that potential occupiers can be reassured by a definite programme of completion, which could be as early as the end of 2008, then further investment will come to Langthwaite Grange, providing a major boost for the local economy."
In order to provide new public roads and improve the services infrastructure to the site it has been necessary to introduce a residential element into the mixed use application. This will generate sufficient income to cross-subsidise the employment development. As well as providing new housing, the residential plans also include improvements to the highway access for the area through Broad Lane, enhancing safer travel in the area for both pedestrians and traffic.
Morton continues: "The residential scheme itself will meet an important requirement in the area providing much needed new family accommodation on an existing site which has been neglected and currently constitutes a local 'eyesore'."
Landmark Castlevale LLP has spent nearly a year consulting with both the local Regeneration Agency and local Planning Authority and hope to receive a response from Wakefield Metropolitan District Council within the next few months. A thorough local consultation of adjoining owners has already been conducted and any concerns raised have been accommodated wherever possible. Assuming the consent is granted then work could start on site as early as summer this year, with the local community reaping the benefits of new investment, employment and housing early 2009.
Morton concludes: "This is a multi-million pound investment in this previously depressed area, which we believe will make a significant contribution to the regeneration of South Kirkby to the benefit of the local residents. I look forward to pursuing this exciting project at the earliest possible opportunity."
An artist's impression of the proposed development at South Kirkby
Where do I go now?: » View the latest news items » View the news archive » Subscribe to Weekly Construction Newsletter » Submit news
