A few weeks ago we reported on the future of the Kirkstall District Centre site and Tesco’s proposals for it, and I thought I’d give you an update on where things are so far.

Currently Tesco are in contact with the Kirkstall Valley Community Association and other local groups, who are helping to voice residents thoughts on the development at this early stage. Tesco are considering the options for the site and are drawing up design proposals at the moment and the public consulation will still go ahead as planned when these proposals are ready.

There have been concerns raised that the consultations are not currently public but the proposals are still at an early stage, and until these are more developed there is really very little to consult on. Please be assured that we will let you know as soon as we find out when public consultations will start.

What I can tell you about the proposals so far is:

• Tesco have demolished the vaccuum forming building and are maintaining the site from fly-tipping and graffitti
• 70,000 sq ft Tesco Extra store
• Main frontage will be facing Kirkstall Lane
• Beecroft Street might be closed in part
• Car entrance off Beecroft Street and from Kirkstall Lane
• Service entrance on Kirkstall Hill for Tesco, and on Kirkstall Lane for other stores
• A number of other retail units will be available on the frontage, including proposals for restaurants (we have indicated that these should not be fast food) with space for outside seating
• 609 car parking spaces, mainly underground
• Construction materials undecided yet, strong support for wood glass and stone and making it modern but sympathetic to the surrounding buildings
• The Post Office Club will be moved to a new building where Kirkstall Lights was located at the bottom of Kirkstall Lane
• Plans for a community area and facilities but these need to be developed

Deborah Hayeems, Tesco Corporate Affairs Manager, said: “Although still at an early stage, we are excited about bringing forward plans to develop our site in Kirkstall into a supermarket and thriving district centre, creating hundreds of local jobs. The initial consultation sessions have provided important feedback on what local community groups and organisations would like to see on the site. Once the project team has developed our proposals we will carry out an extensive consultation with local residents and businesses, including a public exhibition in Kirkstall.  Everyone in Kirkstall will have the opportunity to study and comment on our plans before we submit a planning application later in the year.”