A planning application has been submitted for a Low Carbon Energy Centre (LCEC) as part of the revised Eastgate Quarters scheme in Leeds city centre.
The LCEC will generate sustainable, low carbon heating, cooling and power required by the proposed £600 million retial-led scheme and neighbouring homes and businesses.
As well as significantly reducing emissions from the new development, the LCEC has the potential to significantly reduce long-term utility costs, improving the viability of businesses moving to the area. It will be located on Bridge Street just to the south of New York Road (A64(M).
A spokesperson for the development said that the LCEC would allow neighbouring sites and buildings to connect to a community heating and power network, which will be compatible with many forms of renewable energy.
It is anticipated that it will be capable of delivering a 25–30 per cent reduction in carbon emissions for the Eastgate development and surrounding area.
Joe Swindells, development manager for developers Hammerson said:
"The addition of a Low Carbon Energy Centre should be a welcome sight in the city centre, not only is the building design a great compliment to the proposed Eastgate scheme, it will benefit the surrounding area and community whilst helping Leeds council meet its aims to see a 60 per cent reduction in emissions by 2020."
The £600million Eastgate scheme will transform a 6.9 hectare brownfield site in the city, most of which has been empty for the past four decades. Developers hope it will create a new focus for the north east of the city centre and deliver in the region of 4,000 new jobs.
Earlier today, local group The Friends of Leeds Kirkgate Market voiced concerns over the proposed scheme and its possible impact on the market.
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