Temporary 'hotel' plan for 24-storey student accommodation block in Leeds
Student tower block could be used for short-term hotel stays
Part of an under-occupied student accommodation block could be used for short-term hotel stays if plans are agreed with the council.
The owners of Threadworks, a 24-storey building on Lisbon Street, want to use four flours for non-student visitors to the city.
The building, was contains 548 student bed spaces, can already be occupied by non-students outside of term times.
Planning permission from Leeds City Council would free up 96 beds on levels two-six for a temporary two-year period.
A planning report said: “This application seeks a temporary relaxation to allow for short-term accommodation for any persons during term-time.”
The building, managed by lettings firm Mezzino, began accepting students last September.
The report said: “The building is currently 50 per cent occupied and full occupation is not expected over the next few years.”
Term-time visitors to the building would be allowed to stay for between two and 28 nights.
The report said: “This would allow Mezzino to respond to initial fluctuations in demand for student accommodation until the scheme becomes established in the market, and to minimise the proportion of unoccupied bed spaces.”
Use of gym, private dining rooms, study areas and an external terrace would be restricted to students.
The report said: “Access to these spaces is controlled through electronic key systems.
“Procedures are also in place for managing noise and anti-social activity, supported by on-site staffing, CCTV coverage and controlled access arrangements.”
The proposal would make more efficient use of the building and help meet demand for hotel accommodation in the city.
The report said: “The provision of up to 96 temporary short‑stay bed spaces would support the city’s visitor economy, including business visitors, academics and short‑term stays associated with city‑centre activity.”