27 October 2005
Issued by Linfoots

New study reveals Leeds city centre lacks basic facilities to support future development
Lack of quality green open spaces and convenience food shops are high on the list of factors that might make Leeds city centre apartment residents consider moving, according to an independent report by Dr Rachael Unsworth of the School of Geography.

The City Living in Leeds 2005 report concludes that although many residents appreciate the city centre lifestyle and being within walking distance of work, there are frustrations over the size of accommodation and the local surroundings, which may limit the amount of time households will actually reside in the city centre.

Commissioned by leading Leeds-based developer KW Linfoot, to investigate modern living trends and help to ensure that they create properties that people want to buy and live in, the report concludes that the provision of facilities has not yet caught up with the pace of development. Around 3,500 flats have been completed in Leeds city centre and another 3,000 are under construction. A further 11,000 are proposed, though more than 7,000 of these have yet to be granted planning consent.

Rachael Unsworth said: “Without a change in thinking there is likely to be a serious over-supply of small apartments, a lack of choice for older, larger households and a high turnover of residents as they are faced with little option but to move on from the city centre as their needs mature.”

The report suggests that a wider variety of property types should be built – not just two-bedroom apartments that fit the needs of investors and young professionals. It concludes that if there is to be a more settled and balanced population in the city centre, there should also be property that will appeal to families and more senior households.

Rachael continued: “The report outlines clear priorities for developers and the Council. There are many developments that have not been finalised and it is hoped this evidence will encourage the reassessment of the mix of units to be offered so that there is consideration for widening the market and sustaining demand in the longer term.”

The report is the result of the most comprehensive city living survey in the UK with questionnaires hand delivered to all accessible completed apartments in Leeds city centre. A total of 500 households (789 residents) returned completed forms – a very good response rate for such a survey.

A third year geography student, Emily Hartley, analysed the data and presented the findings to city centre residents who responded to our invitation to attend a meeting in the School of Geography. Further points were raised by residents and were incorporated into the analysis.

The research is a good example of work that has practical applications. KW Linfoot’s managing director, Kevin Linfoot said: “To sustain the development growth rates in Leeds we have to listen to city residents and understand their frustrations. We have already taken on board the findings of this report and plan to include doctor’s surgeries, storage and recycling facilities as well as properties targeted directly at the over 55’s in our new West Central development.”

Pauline Foster, until recently head of Leeds City Centre Management (LCCM), said: “This research has been invaluable in helping the LCCM Board to think about the actions that need to be taken over the next five years in order to increase the attractiveness of the city centre for residents. Findings from the survey are being used in drafting the new strategic plan for 2005 – 2011.”

Free copies of the report are available by calling KW Linfoot on 0113 391 6300 or by visiting www.geog.leeds.ac.uk/publications/cityliving

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