Plans for a residential and leisure-led regeneration scheme in Leeds centred around the creation of a new public park that draws inspiration from New York's famous Highline have been approved.
The proposals included the regeneration of the abandoned grade II-listed viaduct at Monk Bridge to transform the top of the bridge into a new public park, while the arches underneath will provide prime space for restaurants, bars and shops.
Detailed and listed consent has been granted for the restoration and conversion of the viaduct into commercial and retail units.
Planning permission has also been granted for the creation of 307 residential units across three new tower blocks while outline approval has also been granted for an additional two blocks of 300 units.
The scheme was developed by Foundation Real Estate and Alpha Real Capital and designs were created by CJCT Architects.
Housing developer Foundation Real Estate, was launched earlier this year, headed up by industry leaders Julian D’Arcy, Tracey Hartley and Nick Carter, the Monk Bridge scheme is the firm's flagship development.
Julian D’Arcy, principal at Foundation Real Estate, said: "One of the first things people see when arriving into Leeds by rail is the viaduct, a masterpiece of Victorian engineering.
"We are therefore thrilled to have the support of the council in delivering a scheme that will bring it back in to use and serve as a destination for the community to relax and unwind and show the city at its best – celebrating its heritage whilst striving ahead to deliver much needed homes and amenities."
Tracey Hartley, asset manager at Foundation Real Estate, said: "Not only are we excited to be regenerating this significant heritage asset, but we are looking forward to developing a range of homes that suit Leeds’ growing and diverse population.
"We are confident that our plans can celebrate the past whilst championing the future, finding an innovative new use for the site in keeping the demands of this burgeoning city."