For thirty years, Mabgate was home to the textile manufacturing company Cohen and Wilks. In 2020, the owners made the strategic decision to relocate and invest in new premises, bringing this remarkable 1.5 acre site to the market.
HBD acquired the land and worked closely with Cohen and Wilks, providing a flexible leaseback term to ensure they could remain onsite while transitioning to their new premises.
This acquisition was particularly significant as it marked HBD’s first project after relocating to its new regional base in Leeds, making it especially close to the team’s hearts.
New ideas for Mabgate
Although it was previously used for industrial and warehousing purposes, the site did not meet the current standards for a high quality industrial and logistics scheme. So, working with the local authority, HBD achieved planning for a highly affordable, residential led development that will transform a brownfield site in one of Leeds’ most deprived areas into a thriving residential community.
With designs by Leeds-based Cunniff Design, the scheme also aims to meet the needs of modern residents with 310 affordable rental apartments, ranging from studios to one, two and three bedroom units all centred around a hub where people can work, relax, and gather as a community.
The area in which Mabgate stands became a designated Conservation Area because of its own distinct neighbourhood identity, rich in culture, arts, and music, nods to which have been incorporated into the designs. There are plans for a 3,500sq ft commercial unit on the ground floor and 6,500sq ft of internal amenity space featuring a concierge, gym, relaxation areas, and co-working space. Additionally, the scheme design features an outdoor courtyard and green space, including a lower garden.
Giving back during the planning process
Since acquiring the site in December 2020, HBD was highly active in the community, offering spaces within Mabgate to several local charities. These included Zarach and MAP Charity, which transformed the building with an incredible 26ft mural created during a children’s workshop.
Entrusting the site’s future in capable hands
With planning approval secured, HBD sought to find the right organisation to bring its vision for Mabgate to fruition. This was achieved in early 2024 when, following extensive community consultation, HBD identified Cheyne Impact Real Estate to take the development forward.
Cheyne Impact Real Estate, launched in 2014 to address housing challenges in the UK, and tailored its housing investment strategy for Mabgate to meet the specific needs of the local community.
With the sale formalised in January 2024, the organisation is focusing on delivering social value to this up and coming area, with a scheme that is both high quality and significantly affordable.
