Capital Projects Programme Management
GenNorth were appointed to lead a team in conjunction with Hawkins Brown architects to develop an RIBA Stage 1 scheme for a new facility for Leeds Conservatoire Performing Arts curriculum. Luminate enlisted GenNorth to lead strategic planning efforts. GenNorth assembled a team to deliver a fully costed development options appraisal, space utilisation plan, and planning strategy. The work involved addressing existing planning consents, discharging historic conditions, and securing new approvals to ensure continued use of the site during development.
Leeds Conservatoire, a Higher Education provider, faces significant challenges related to its fragmented infrastructure. With aging facilities, rising costs, and limited capacity, the institution relies on renting private performance spaces, which is financially unsustainable. To address these issues, the Mabgate site, owned by Luminate Education Group, has been identified as a potential new home for the Conservatoire's Performing Arts programs.
The Mabgate site currently hosts Further Education spaces for Leeds City College and rehearsal facilities for Leeds Conservatoire. With two new academic buildings under construction (completion expected in Q4 2025) and a recent site acquisition, Luminate aims to develop a revised masterplan for Mabgate. The vision includes a purpose-built facility for Performing Arts, featuring a 200+ seat theatre, a pop venue, practice rooms, rehearsal studios, and staff accommodations. This would consolidate the Conservatoire’s operations and replace existing leased spaces.
Sustainability is a key priority, with plans to repurpose materials, set BREEAM targets, and connect to the Leeds District Heating Network. Additionally, the inclusion of residential student accommodation could generate a significant income stream to offset construction costs.
Key Achievements:
Procurement of a masterplan and theatre architect, along with planning and development consultants, following a Board decision in November 2023.
Delivery of the revised masterplan and RIBA Stage 1 feasibility study in collaboration with the project team.
Challenges & Solutions:
Navigating multiple planning consents—some temporary and near expiration - posed significant hurdles. GenNorth established additional project workstreams to address these issues, ensuring smooth progression of the development.
This project remains ongoing and is looking to develop further in 2025.
Image Credit Hawkins Brown
Key Information
Location: Yorkshire
Date Started: December 2023
Sector: Education
Services: Project Management
