Leeds City Council has granted approval for a £675m retail-led development to revitalise the eastern gateway to the city. The development proposed by the Leeds Partnership is expected to put the city on the European retail stage, and increase economic activity. Approval was given by the council after detailed consideration and an extensive, three-year public consultation programme. ‘We are confident we now have a scheme that is one of the most bold and innovative developments Leeds has seen for many years,' said council leader, Andrew Carter. ‘It will help achieve the council's mission of bringing the benefits of a prosperous, vibrant and attractive city to all the people of Leeds, and will take the city up a league in terms of its retail competitiveness, both nationally and internationally.' Plans for the 1.5m square foot scheme include at least 100 new retail units, up to 600 new homes, a number of offices, restaurants and bars, as well as a gym, medical centre, church and hotel. It is anticipated that up to 6,000 new jobs will be created.
