Esh commences work on £3.4m scheme in Leeds’ White Rose Centre

The refurbishment will pave the way for the re-location of Marks & Spencer into a new anchor store.

Construction work has started on a £3.4 million project which will transform a vacant space in The White Rose Centre into a brand-new home for Marks and Spencer.

The store, which was previously occupied by Debenhams, will undergo extensive re-modelling works to provide space for a 15,000 sq ft M&S Foodhall, as well as a café, clothing and home departments.

Designed by The Harris Partnership, the scheme includes extensive structural alterations, demolition work, escalator and lift removal, and refurbishment of the internal layout. While the front elevation will boast an upgraded full height glazed entrance.

Esh Construction’s commercial build division has been appointed to deliver the scheme on behalf of Landsec, working in partnership with The Harris Partnership, Gardiner & Theobald and Waterman Group.

Stuart Leslie, Divisional Director at Esh Construction, said: “We are delighted to be working on behalf of Landsec to deliver this key project within The White Rose Centre.

“This contract is a notable win for Esh’s commercial build division as we execute our growth plans across the Yorkshire region. As a local contractor, we’re proud to play our part in improving such an important retail hub for the community.”

Daniel Broadhead, Technical Director at The Harris Partnership said: “The White Rose Shopping Centre is integral to the retail offering in Leeds and our existing relationship allows us to understand and interpret exactly what is required to remain sympathetic to the existing design yet create an exciting new store.”

Work is expected to complete in winter 2022.

We are delighted to be working on behalf of Landsec to deliver this key project within The White Rose Centre. This contract is a notable win for Esh’s commercial build division as we execute our growth plans across the Yorkshire region.”

Stuart Leslie, Divisional Director at Esh Construction