Royal Armouries unveils £100 million vision

A West Yorkshire visitor attraction has unveiled plans to capitalise on a “once in a lifetime opportunity” with a £100 million-plus regeneration aimed at boosting the region’s cultural and events offer.

The Royal Armouries Museum in Leeds is progressing proposals for its Waterfront development, which will more than double its existing conference and events facilities.

Central to the scheme will be a new 3500sq metre exhibition and events hall, forming part of more than 8,000sq metres of conference and events space alongside new cultural, hospitality and leisure facilities.

Bosses say the expansion will strengthen Leeds and West Yorkshire’s ability to attract larger national and international events, while providing new space for immersive exhibitions.

Nat Edwards, director general of The Royal Armouries Museum, said: “We have a once in a lifetime opportunity to do something really exciting here. 

“Over the past three decades, we have provided enjoyment and entertainment and food for thought for millions of people, and our plans set out the route towards bringing this experience to millions more.

“We’re proud to be progressing one of the most important regeneration schemes of any city in the North today, and realising the once in a generation opportunities this development will bring, adding huge value to the city and region.”

The development will be built on the existing Tiltyard site, with expanded jousting facilities also planned as part of the transformation.

The museum and New Dock Hall will remain open throughout the redevelopment, alongside its existing conference facilities.

Benjamin Campbell, venue director at the Royal Armouries, added: “Hosting major events in recent years has underlined this venue’s ability to attract large conferences and exhibitions to the city, bringing millions of pounds into the regional economy. 

“This project will further improve our events offer and ensure that we are able to host events of even greater magnitude in the coming years, bringing further economic benefits.

“I’m delighted that the huge majority of our events space will remain fully open while we undertake this exciting project. 

“We have already signed up new and existing event customers to take advantage of this unique space as our development plans progress.”

Plans are currently going through the final stages of an options appraisal, with the existing options said to offer a cost-benefit ratio of at least 3:1.

Architects and other members of the project’s design team are expected to be announced in the coming weeks and months, with appointments currently being finalised.

A planning application for the scheme, which comes as the Royal Armouries marks 30 years in Leeds, is expected to be submitted in 2027.

Ed Whiting, chief executive of Leeds City Council, added: “The Royal Armouries is a jewel in this city’s crown. 

“Having a nationally significant museum on our doorstep provides opportunities for local people and also drives tourism and investment into the city and region. 

“This project will act as a catalyst for regeneration and particularly the expansion of this part of the city in the coming years.”

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