The University of Leeds has acquired the 10-acre ‘North plot’ at the Gateway 45 Leeds development from Aire Valley Land LLP, a joint venture between Harworth Group plc and Evans Property Group, in order to create space to collaborate with industry on major research initiatives.

The facility will be home to the University’s Institute for High Speed Rail and System Integration, to be co-located with planned HS2 Rolling Stock Depot to create a ‘thriving hub’ for future engineers.

Professor Lisa Roberts, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research and Innovation at the University of Leeds, said: “The new advanced testing facilities as part of the University’s Institute, alongside HS2’s new rolling stock depot, are a significant step forward for UK high speed rail capability.

“They position Leeds City Region as a global centre for high speed rail research and development, so we’re working closely with HS2 to ensure our facilities align with its needs and those of industry, so all sides can deliver for the country.”

The Institute for High Speed Rail and System Integration will train postgraduate engineers through new MSc courses and PhDs, including a new MSc course on Railway Engineering and Project Management, and a variety of new PhD opportunities to ensure a pipeline of skilled professionals for the industry.

Together both of these facilities will make Leeds and the region a global centre for advanced rail and high speed technology, further strengthening the Leeds City Region economy. The Institute is expected to attract significant inward investment and jobs to Leeds City Region, with the Rolling Stock Depot also expected to create up to 125 skilled jobs.

The Gateway 45 is adjacent to Junction 45 of the M1 that extends to 166 acres and has outline planning consent for 2.64 million sq ft of commercial space.