3 February 2011
Leeds City Council has approved plans for a new railway station at Kirkstall Forge.
The proposals for the new station, which form part of Commercial Estates Group's wider scheme to transform the 56-acre former industrial site into a thriving mi
CEG's masterplan for Kirkstall Forge includes 1,045 homes and 300,000 sq ft of commercial office space as well as retail and leisure facilities. The company has provided £4 million towards the delivery of the station which will not only serve the new Forge development but also the wider area including Kirkstall, south Horsforth and Bramley Falls areas of the city.
"A new station at Kirkstall Forge is a key element in reducing congestion along a busy road corridor into Leeds, and I am glad that Leeds City Council has now given the project planning permission." said Metro Chairman Cllr Ryk Downes.
"Metro has worked closely with Network Rail, Northern, Leeds City Council and site developer CEG, which is contributing £4m to the larger £23.24m rail growth scheme, so it is important that we now ensure that the Government gives the scheme the go-ahead so this private sector funding is not lost."
Charles Johnson from CEG adds: "The new railway station will mean that Kirkstall Forge will only be a six minute journey from Leeds city centre. This, together with the riverside frontage and facilities such as a gym, créche, hotel, restaurants and bars makes it an ideal location for residents and businesses to locate."
Subject to approval from the Department for Transport, the station could be opened in 2013.
Kirkstall Forge will be an intimate and safe residential community with sustainable public transport links via a new rail station positioned only 6 minutes from Leeds city centre. With an integrated bus strategy, Kirkstall Forge will be a unique rural setting for the urban worker.
The buildings will be of high quality, traditional materials using modern methods of construction that will stand the test of time and integrate with and be sympathetic to their environment.
Thoughtful design, quality fixtures and fittings and a good understanding of light and space will lead to a policy of living environment beyond anything currently offered in Leeds. Kirkstall Forge will deliver individuality, quality and practicality.
Kirkstall Forge is about regeneration and bringing together people in an integrated community. Boundaries need to be explored and people's perceptions of how they live challenged. Kirkstall Forge will provide a unique offer, which will be achieved via thoughtful and comprehensive design.
