STACK Leeds and George Street hotel key to Leeds’ Kirkgate Market ambitions
Councillors will next week be asked to approve a five-year strategy for the historic destination, which includes among other items the arrival of the container-style foodhall and a long-awaited hotel and gym.
The previous strategy for the market covered the period 2021-2026, and included upgrades such as £11m into the refurbishment of the 19th century blockshops; an expansion of its street food offering; and efforts to improve the community hub aspect with more family activities.
Efforts paid off, with footfall figures for 2024 showing the market received more than 5.9m visits – an increase of 33% on 2021.
Now, following consultation with traders and customers, the strategy document outlines the next steps, including the construction of STACK Leeds, subject to planning permission.
Under current plans, STACK Leeds would be spread across two floors, with a central plaza seating area covered by a ‘stretch tent’ providing shelter, when needed, from the elements.
The plaza would be home to two large digital screens as well as a stage that would be used for a programme of live music and other entertainment. Ten street food outlets, six bars and a coffee shop are expected.
As for the hotel, in October last year Clegg Construction was appointed to deliver a pre-construction services agreement for the hotel near Kirkgate Market.
Planning permission was granted for a 126-unit aparthotel in 2018, with developer Town Centre Securities working alongside architect Carey Jones Chapman Tolcher on the scheme.
That consent lapsed in 2021 and Leeds City Council decided to take on development itself, with a pre-let lease in place with a proposed operator.
The council’s version of the project looks to replace vacant shops with a six-storey 143-unit aparthotel that links through to Kirkgate Market.
Other planned improvements include continuing to enhance the market’s free events programme for families, funding for ongoing upkeep and maintenance of the grade one-listed market structure, and increasing its social media reach.
Cllr Jonathan Pryor, Leeds City Council’s deputy leader and executive member for economy, transport and sustainable development, said: “Leeds Kirkgate Market is a hugely important part of local life and it’s a real source of pride that we, as a council, have been able to support it so strongly over the last five years through a mix of investment and innovative thinking.
“Recovery from the effects of the pandemic has not been easy, but today the market is in good shape and ready to face the future with confidence.
“We know, though, that we cannot afford to rest on our laurels and this new five-year strategy contains much to be excited about.
“My thanks to everyone at the market who took part in the consultation activity, it has played a vital role in the development of the strategy.
“Your support – and indeed the hard work and dedication that we see from traders and staff week in, week out – will help us ensure that Leeds Kirkgate Market continues to go from strength to strength.”
