The 4.6 acre site was cleared in 2014 and work will now start on the first 18-storey block overlooking the River Aire.

Due for completion in early 2021, the tiered profile of the attractive brick clad building will incorporate a high-level residents lounge overlooking the river.

The whole block has been forward sold to private rental landlord Grainger which will own and manage the 242 apartments.

The remaining three plots have planning approval for 400,000 square foot across three buildings.

Discussions are ongoing with end users for the remaining three phases of the development. The site-wide infrastructure installed as part of the first phase will support these phases.

Tim Harvey, ISG’s regional director, said: “The PRS model brings a welcome boost to the availability of high-quality housing stock and our scheme for Grainger is ideally suited for young professionals working across West Yorkshire and beyond who are seeking a central city location with great transport links.

“This project will kick-start the wider regeneration of this strategic site in Leeds, creating a vibrant new community and improving the public realm in this underused location.”