Construction work has commenced on a new £400 million housing scheme in Leeds.

The CEG-led project will see over 1,000 new homes and 400,000 sq ft of offices, retail, leisure and community spaces developed at Kirkstall Forge.

Tolent is delivering the first residential phase on the scheme, which also involves the construction of two prototype houses.

The two prototype houses will be completed this summer and, once finished, members of CEG's design team will move into the three and five-bed homes and test out the living experience.


Following their feedback, improvements will be made to finesse the final product before continuing with the first phase of 112 contemporary homes, which were designed by Stirling Prize winner Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios.

Regional director for Tolent, John Currie, said: "This is another great win for the team which really shows the depth of experience and expertise we have as a national construction firm.

"With such a significant and visionary project that is already winning awards, we’re looking forward to being a part of this legacy for Leeds as well as the innovative prototype housing which is something new for us."

James Shimwell, head of residential development at Kirkstall Forge, added: "This innovative way of delivering prototype housing follows the attention to detail we have paid to everything we are delivering at Kirkstall Forge.

"By testing every detail we can ensure we best complement Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios' inspiring design, which maximises the acres of green space and waterfront opportunity."

(CM)