Leeds College of Building has unveiled a newly refurbished North Street Campus following a £750,000 renovation. The eight-week project, overseen by award-winning fit-out specialists Lodestone Projects, has modernised the campus with new, accessible facilities designed to support construction students.
The refurbishment spanned four floors of the college, transforming the former library into a bright and open student enrichment area. This new space includes a gaming zone, TV lounge, meeting room, and a study area. Students now also have access to Student Services through a new office with a service counter. The flexible design allows the area to double as an exam room for up to 80 students.
One of the project’s key goals was to enhance accessibility for students. As part of this effort, the enrichment area is now located near the main entrance, making it easier for all students to access a safe and inclusive space.
In addition to this, the college’s reception and café area were revamped into a larger communal zone. Updates included fresh décor, new flooring, and improved power and IT access. Energy-efficient LED lighting was also installed throughout the corridors and stairwells.
The upper floors of the building were reconfigured to house a new learning resource centre, additional teaching spaces, and a new staff training room. These changes were part of a broader effort to align the North Street Campus with the college’s more modern South Bank Campus.
Lodestone Projects, who led the renovation, brought a personal connection to the task. Joint Managing Director Josh Donnelly, himself a former apprentice of the college, reflected on the significance of the work. “Many of our staff are current or former apprentices from Leeds College of Building,” Donnelly said. “It was incredibly rewarding to give something back to the institution that helped shape our careers. We’re thrilled with the results and hope future students will benefit from these new facilities.”
The refurbishment was completed in collaboration with design consultancy Fuse Studios, who had previously worked on the South Bank Campus, and project managers Turner & Townsend. The aim was to bring the design principles of the newer South Bank Campus to North Street.
Mike Harris, Director at Fuse Studios, said: “We were delighted to collaborate with Leeds College of Building again. Our goal was to create a space that enhances the students’ learning environment, and I believe we’ve achieved that.”
Turner & Townsend Director, Ewan Shaw, added: “Successful construction projects rely on teamwork and clear communication. The North Street refurbishment was a great example of how collaboration among all partners led to such a fantastic result.”
Leeds College of Building’s Vice Principal of Finance and Resources, David Pullein, expressed his enthusiasm for the project. “We’re delighted that our long-standing partners have helped us bring our vision of accessible and modern student facilities to life,” he said. “These vibrant new spaces will help us attract a diverse workforce to meet the growing demands of the construction industry.” Register to attend: www.lcb.ac.uk/events
