Plans to redevelop a landmark Leeds building formerly occupied by West Yorkshire Police into an apartment scheme have been unveiled.
The distinctive Brotherton House, based at the junction of Westgate with St Paul's Street, was acquired from West Yorkshire Police by J Pullan & Sons in 2012.
With its recognisable twin circular staircase towers, Brotherton House comprises 56,000 sq ft of accommodation and most recently had been used by West Yorkshire Police for administration facilities.
The six-storey building was constructed during the 1950s at a time when a large part of The Headrow was being developed and as such Brotherton House enjoyed an imposing frontage at the main western approach to the city centre.
A total of 63 apartments are proposed for the building. The smallest studio is 325 sq ft, although the studios are typically 485 - 540 sq ft. Additionally, there is a mix of one bedroom (540 sq ft) and two-bedroom apartments (810 - 1,130 sq ft).
Two new levels are proposed for the building's roof, in part replacing an earlier rooftop extension on the west side of the building.
It is intended that the extension would complement the architecture below using glass facades framed by limestone and green slate detailing. The apartments at these levels would have terraces facing east and west.
The basement of the building would be retained and accommodate car parking, cycle storage, plant and a laundry for residents.
In a report to be scrutinised by the council's plans panel next week, the developer says few alterations other than cleaning and localised repair are proposed for the exterior of the building which remains in a good condition.
Although the building has entrance points on four sides it is likely that the primary entrance would be on the east elevation, fronting Grace Street. This provides more direct access to the city centre and also the best opportunities for level access into the building.
Originally built in 1956 for Leeds chemicals and dyestuffs firm Brotherton and Co, when the building became surplus to its owner's requirements it was put up for sale and bought by Leeds Corporation. In 1965 the former Leeds City Police took occupation and ultimately established its administrative headquarters there.