Royal Armouries Leeds unveils next steps for £100m 'once in a lifetime' redevelopment

The Royal Armouries has revealed further details of plans for a major £100m-plus redevelopment which could transform its site in Leeds South Bank.

The project would more than double the museum's existing conference and events facilities, creating more than 8,000 square metres of space for conferences, exhibitions, hospitality and leisure.

A new 3,500 square metre exhibition and events hall is at the heart of the plans, which are being developed as the Royal Armouries celebrates 30 years in Leeds.

The museum says the scheme will help Leeds and West Yorkshire compete for larger national and international conferences and events, while also providing a new home for immersive exhibitions and expanded jousting facilities.

The redevelopment will be built on the current Tiltyard site, where the outdoor jousting arena is located.

The plans are currently going through the final stages of an options appraisal, with the existing options each offering a reported cost-benefit ratio of at least 3:1.

Planning permission is expected to be submitted to Leeds City Council in 2027.

The team which will deliver the redevelopment is also expected to be announced in the coming weeks and months, with appointments including architects and the wider design team currently being finalised.

The Royal Armouries says its existing conference and events facilities will remain open throughout the redevelopment, alongside the museum and New Dock Hall.

Nat Edwards, director general of the Royal Armouries Museum, said the project represented a "once in a lifetime opportunity".

He said: "Over the past three decades, we have provided enjoyment and entertainment and food for thought for millions of people, and our plans set out the route towards bringing this experience to millions more.

“We're proud to be progressing one of the most important regeneration schemes of any city in the North today, and realising the once in a generation opportunities this development will bring, adding huge value to the city and region."

Ed Whiting, chief executive of Leeds City Council, described the Royal Armouries as a "jewel in this city's crown".

He added: “Having a nationally significant museum on our doorstep provides opportunities for local people and also drives tourism and investment into the city and region.

“This project will act as a catalyst for regeneration and particularly the expansion of this part of the city in the coming years.”

Benjamin Campbell, venue director at the Royal Armouries, said major events already held at the venue had demonstrated its ability to attract conferences and exhibitions to Leeds.

“I’m delighted that the huge majority of our events space will remain fully open while we undertake this exciting project,” he said.

“We have already signed up new and existing event customers to take advantage of this unique space as our development plans progress.”

The museum says it has already signed up new and existing event customers to use its facilities while the development plans progress.

The Royal Armouries opened in Leeds in 1996 after moving from its historic home at the Tower of London. It houses one of the country's largest collections of arms and armour and hosts exhibitions and events throughout the year.