Plans to build either a new non-food retail parade or a gym to the rear of the Owlcotes Centre car park have been withdrawn by the applicant.
Asda Stores Limited first submitted ambitious outline plans in February 2019, which would have seen the new two-storey development based at the back of the existing car park, where the bottle banks are.
In a separate planning application submitted at the same time, Marks and Spencer also applied to build two drive-through restaurants on the site. This application has not been withdrawn and currently remains active
Between them, both applications formed an outline masterplan to strengthen the position of the Owlcotes Centre in the face of increasing competition from other retail developments in west Leeds, including the nearby Belgrave Retail Park in Stanningley.
Initial plans by Asda said the building could be split into three retail units – but the supermarket giants said it could ultimately be occupied by one tenant or several within a parade-type format. Their preference was for retail, but Asda said the building would have also been suitable for a gym.
The plans included a new 89-space car park.
West Leeds Dispatch contacted both Asda and Marks and Spencer for comment on Monday. The duo are yet to respond.
Outline applications are usually submitted to establish the principle of the development, with a more detailed proposals to follow.
Influential watchdog organisation Leeds Civic Trust had objected to the Owlcotes scheme, opposing the development of out-of-town shopping centres and raising concerns about traffic and transport to and from the site.
A WLD poll conducted in February 2019 saw almost 80% of respondents in favour of the development. More than 700 votes were cast.
Asda has recently been the subject of a £6.8bn takeover by Euro Garages owners Mohsin and Zuber Issa.