Pickard Properties has appointed Weetwood-based contractor C & AJ Marshalls to restore Burton Grange, an 1881 Victorian villa being converted into nine apartments as part of the £40 million Spinning Acres regeneration in Far Headingley.
The Leeds commercial property project will preserve the 19th-century stone mansion’s historic character within the Far Headingley Conservation Area while introducing modern systems for contemporary rental living. The conversion follows the recent completion of Moor Grange and Moorfield Lodge at Spinning Acres, also delivered by C & AJ Marshalls.
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Miles Pickard, Director of Pickard Properties, said:
“Burton Grange is another important piece of the Spinning Acres story. Each of these villas has its own identity and history, and our approach is always to respect that character while creating homes that feel relevant for modern living.
“Following the successful restoration of Moor Grange and Moorfield Lodge, we’re pleased to continue our partnership with Marshalls. Their understanding of historic buildings and attention to detail is vital in ensuring the building’s heritage is protected while giving it a sustainable future.
“It’s particularly special because Burton Grange has already welcomed the public in recent years through its cultural use, helping attract more than 6000 visitors to Far Headingley, so there’s a real, continued local connection to the building. This next chapter ensures it remains an active part of the community for decades to come.”
Leeds Commercial Property Market Sees Heritage Building Conversions
Burton Grange was built in 1881 during Leeds’ textile-driven expansion, when wealthy industrialists commissioned distinctive stone mansion houses across Headingley and the surrounding areas. The building later became part of the University of Leeds estate before being acquired for residential redevelopment.
Before restoration work began, Burton Grange hosted an immersive art installation as part of Leeds’ Year of Culture programme in 2023, attracting over 6,000 visitors and offering rare public access to the historic property — a cultural use that created local connection to the building ahead of its residential conversion.
The appointment of C & AJ Marshalls reflects Pickard’s strategy of maintaining contractor continuity across the Spinning Acres development.
Andy Barratt, from C & AJ Marshalls, said:
“Our work at Moor Grange and Moorfield Lodge has shown what can be achieved through close collaboration, and we’re looking forward to applying that same care and craftsmanship here. It’s rewarding to play a role in bringing another historic villa at Spinning Acres back into everyday use.”
Why this matters for Leeds
Burton Grange’s restoration shows Leeds can preserve its Victorian architectural heritage while creating quality modern homes, protecting the city’s distinctive character for future generations. Pickard’s successful restoration of multiple heritage villas at Spinning Acres creates a proven model other developers can follow, unlocking more of Leeds’ historic buildings for residential use. This brings derelict properties back into active community use while celebrating the city’s textile-era legacy, creating unique rental homes that showcase Leeds’ architectural distinction and attract residents who value character and history alongside modern living standards.
