Central Leeds to become an Innovation District
PROPOSALS have been put forward for an innovation district in central Leeds.
On 27 July, councillors will hear plans to transform the central area of the city, creating a partnership with the major universities, the council and the hospital.
It would incorporate the main city centre campuses of the University of Leeds, Leeds Beckett University, the Leeds General Infirmary, and the Leeds City Council buildings in the Civic Quarter.
The council said it would seek to attract new research facilities, provide work spaces, create new development opportunities and provide new high-density housing to attract and retain skilled workers.
Councillor Judith Blake, leader of Leeds City Council said: “An innovation district is more than just a place – it is an alliance which would make use of our city’s existing assets. By bringing together some of our city’s most creative and innovative institutions and businesses we will encourage the sharing of ideas and knowledge whilst providing numerous development opportunities.”
Julian Hartley, chief executive of Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, said:
“Our hospitals have always been at the heart of the city so I am extremely pleased that the Leeds General Infirmary site is an integral part of the proposed Innovation District with the many opportunities that brings. We are excited about working with a range of partners to develop new solutions and attract investment, which will be good for our patients and staff and help grow the economy of our city.”
Sir Alan Langlands, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Leeds, said:”These proposals will ensure an integrated approach with positive economic results and social benefits. By launching this positive vision of Leeds as an innovative and connected community, we will support the wider aim of being a compassionate, outward looking City with a strong economy.
“The University is at the heart of the innovation district, and this initiative will complement our own £520m programme of investment, including the £40m innovation and enterprise centre which will ensure that businesses have rapid access to our world-class research.”
Professor Peter Slee, Vice Chancellor of Leeds Beckett University added: “Leeds Beckett is proud to be a partner in the Innovation District and to continue to play a positive role in our city’s economic prosperity.”
The news comes after the announcement that Sheffield City Council had secured £220m for five projects over three years from a Chinese development company.
