West End Leeds
You need to download and install the latest version of Adobe Flash Player to view this site correctly
Public Spaces
WEST END LOOKS AFTER THE SPACES BETWEEN
When the developers of West End Partnership united to invest £1billion into a five star financial district, much was said of the space set to attract global businesses to Leeds.
But the partnership between Town Centre Securities, MEPC, BAM Properties and Bruntwood is more than that. They understand that a vast regeneration project is not just about a collection of buildings alone and that social responsibility is vital to its success.
Richard Lewis, director of Town Centre Securities (TCS) said: “International businesses need a well-connected space where professionals are linked as part of one common goal.
“They desire a business community with strong eco-credentials, employment opportunities and business wellbeing. As such we have made a firm commitment to West End businesses and wider areas in Leeds."
“For example, we recognise that the workforce play a key role in the future of the city. University students in Leeds are firmly part of that and it’s important that we support their continued development."
True to their word, TCS, together with their Founder’s charitable trust, pledged over £3.5m worth of funding towards a purpose built student services centre. The result is a six-storey building in the heart of the campus which houses a one-stop-shop and key student administration services. It proves that TCS are serious when it comes to social responsibility and it’s no surprise that this commitment reaches their own developments.
“We are dedicated to creating a place where businesses can not only operate from day to day, but a place where people aspire to be. We strive to achieve that by creating a dynamic community that is part of the fabric of the city."
Marking a major mile stone in the £1billion development, TCS constructed a bridge that knits together two key communities for the first time in 800 years. The bridge (West End Arch) connects West End and Holbeck, increasing walk-ability around the city and contributing towards the reduction of cars on the roads.
Adding to the accessibility is the Riverside Walkway which links the business community to Leeds train station. The completion of the walkway has also been a great success and has made the journey to and from the train station not only pleasant but quick.
During the summer months, it is important for professionals working in the centre to have a place to relax and socialise during their lunch breaks. BAM Properties, has recognised this fundamental need. In-keeping with their environmental responsibilities, they are developing a green space in Leeds, part of which will also be a nature reserve.
Environment, education and community relations are just three important parts of corporate social responsibility. MEPC is committed in their efforts towards all of these aspects, exemplified in their connection to Construction Leeds.
Rick de Blaby, chief executive of MEPC, said: “With a changing city skyline the economy is set to boom and this will be of a benefit to those working and training in the area. It’s an exciting time for those looking for a career in construction. “
Bruntwood support artists through their ‘Out of Office’ project, exhibiting local art work in business reception areas and once a year they sponsor West Yorkshire Playhouse.
CSR does not just impact the built environment and the community, but helps raise money for charity in more ways than just writing cheques. For example, forty of Bruntwood’s employees took park in last years' Leeds 10k run and also abseiled down West One, raising over £20,000 for Lineham Farm, a residential farm for children from deprived areas, and laid a mile long track that improved wheel chair access around the site.
Richard Lewis said: “Developments in the West End are going to greatly impact the city and we want to make sure that the city is looked after along the way.
“We are very proud of Leeds and the city’s future is an exciting one and it’s wonderful to be a part of that. We want to help Leeds and give something back but we also recognise the importance of this for our strategic goals."
Fast Fact...
The West End Partnership will deliver over £1billion of development in the city