BDP appointed for £100m Royal Armouries expansion

The Royal Armouries has appointed BDP to take its proposed £100m-plus Waterfront Development in Leeds through the next detailed design stages. The scheme would expand the museum’s conference and events facilities and create a purpose-built venue for immersive experiences.

A new 3,500 sq m commercial exhibition and events hall would form the centrepiece of the development. The proposals would more than double existing facilities, creating over 8,000 sq m of conference and events space, alongside associated accommodation.

The development is planned for the current Tiltyard site at Leeds Dock, which houses the outdoor jousting arena. The Royal Armouries said the redevelopment would also improve opportunities for jousting.

The plans remain in the final stages of options appraisal, with a planning application expected in 2027. The existing conference facilities, museum and New Dock Hall will remain open during the redevelopment.

BDP secured the appointment through a competitive process involving several architectural practices, having previously worked on the initial masterplanning. Its brief covers new cultural and commercial facilities, including hospitality and leisure space.

Nat Edwards, director general of the Royal Armouries Museum, said BDP’s proposed team demonstrated an understanding of the venue’s particular requirements, including expertise in designing for horses and storytelling in public spaces.

“Finding the right design partner for this project is a crucial step forward towards delivering a development that’s going to help transform the South Bank of Leeds and bring new jobs and new opportunities for a lot of people,” he said.

“I’m confident that BDP get the Royal Armouries, they get Leeds Dock and they get what the project means for the city. I’m really looking forward to working with them.”

Vicky Casey, architect director and head of BDP’s Leeds studio, said: “The project gives us an opportunity to create a new destination on the waterfront and at its heart is a simple idea - to bring people together through new creative experiences, live interpretation, and the exchange of ideas.”