As well as providing a new commercial office development for Leeds in the heart of the city, the development will deliver additional long-stay car parking capacity for Leeds and better short-stay and drop-off facilities at the station for passengers. .

A notice has been published in the Official Journal of the European Union seeking registrations of interest to undertake the development of the site, which extends to 5.4 acres with 906 car parking spaces in surface-level and multi-storey car parks.

All proposals will be required to include the addition of 350 extra parking spaces for the station within a multi-storey development, as well as enhancements to the station entrance, in return for the commercial development opportunity on surface land released.

The deadline for responses will be 13 June 2011, with those shortlisted invited to make detailed scheme submissions. It is anticipated that final developer selection will take place in autumn 2011 with a view to delivering the new multi-story car park by spring 2014.

David Biggs Network Rail’s director of property said: “Network Rail is committed to improving the railway for passengers and getting value for money. By working in partnership with a commercial developer we can deliver much needed improvements to the car parking and station facilities at Leeds station in a cost-effective way.

“The end result of this development partnership will be enhanced station facilities for passengers, more car parking spaces for Leeds, and a new commercial office development in the heart of the city.”

Mark Goldstone, head of corporate relations, Leeds, York & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce said: “The Chamber welcomes this news from Network Rail. Leeds Station is a key gateway and for many investors, tourists and business travellers it is the first impression they get of our city. With passenger numbers having doubled since the last major investment in the station this much needed development will complement existing facilities and create further opportunities to connect the station into surrounding regeneration schemes.”