Leeds Market, situated in the heart of Leeds city center, stands as one of the most iconic and historic markets in the United Kingdom.
The advancement of plans for a new food village at Leeds Kirkgate Market has reached a notable milestone with the confirmation of a preferred operator for the ‘container-style’ venue. Last April, Leeds City Council initiated a call for initial expressions of interest from private operators interested in establishing and managing the attraction, which is proposed for a section of the market’s outdoor trading area.
After undergoing a thorough selection process spanning 10 months, the council has revealed STACK as its preferred operator. Specializing in crafting sustainable leisure destinations, STACK is renowned for curating a blend of street food and beverage outlets, along with offering events and entertainment. Since its opening on the North East coast in 2020, STACK Seaburn, constructed from repurposed shipping containers, has attracted over 2.5 million visitors.
Currently, work is progressing on two new STACK venues in Newcastle city centre, with one designated as a ‘fan zone’ adjacent to Newcastle United’s St James’ Park ground. Furthermore, STACK has ongoing development projects in various locations including Lincoln, Bishop Auckland, Middlesbrough, Whitley Bay, Durham, Carlisle, Northampton, Manchester, Wigan, and Sheffield.
STACK was among the three private operators that submitted formal bids to the council regarding the Leeds site. The selection of STACK as the preferred operator was based on both its competitive rental offer and comprehensive proposals demonstrating how the project would complement the market and drive new business for existing traders.
Commencement of any construction work is contingent upon the project obtaining the requisite planning and licensing approvals. The construction costs associated with building the food, beverage, and entertainment venue would be covered by the operator, with rental payments providing a fresh revenue source for the council.
It is anticipated that the development will bolster foot traffic throughout the entire market site, attracting a fresh clientele to this cherished historical retail hub of the city. Moreover, the project is expected to generate employment opportunities and provide increased prospects for independent traders, thanks to its operation seven days a week, extending into the evenings.
The outdoor market presently offers space for a total of 185 stalls, with approximately 85 of them occupied on its busiest days. As per the council’s initial announcement in late 2022, proposed plans involve reducing the number of outdoor pitches and utilizing the vacated space for the new container village.
Despite the reconfiguration, the revamped area would continue to adequately accommodate all existing traders, along with welcoming new arrivals. Moreover, it would retain its status as one of the region’s largest sites of its kind.
Councillor Jonathan Pryor, Leeds City Council’s deputy leader and executive member for economy, culture and education said:
“We are delighted to be able to confirm STACK as our preferred operator for what will be, subject to the necessary planning and licensing approvals, a really exciting addition to Leeds Kirkgate Market.
“STACK’s track record and proposals make it an ideal fit for a scheme that would complement other major improvements at the market – improvements that recently helped push monthly visitor numbers past 500,000.
“Our ongoing investment in this important and historic retail destination means it is now well placed to play its part in powering the further regeneration of the eastern side of the city centre. The council is also committed to continuing to work with the market’s existing traders to ensure they can reap the maximum benefit from the proposed food village.”
Neill Winch, STACK’s chief executive officer said:
“We at STACK are thrilled to be selected as the preferred operator for the new food village at Leeds Kirkgate Market. Our passion for creating vibrant, community-focused destinations aligns perfectly with the council’s vision for regeneration and cultural enrichment.
“STACK’s approach is all about sustainability and synergy with local businesses. We’re excited to bring our unique blend of street food, beverage offerings and entertainment to Leeds and to integrate with the historic and bustling market environment. This opportunity not only allows us to contribute to the city’s dynamic growth but also to create a space where the community and visitors can enjoy a diverse and engaging experience.
“We’re committed to ensuring that the new container village will be a place where both existing and new traders can thrive, enhancing the overall market and ensuring it remains a key attraction in Leeds. We look forward to working closely with the council and local stakeholders to make this vision a reality.”
Significant recent enhancements at the market encompass an ongoing £10 million endeavor aimed at repairing, conserving, and enhancing the 1875 ‘blockshops,’ which stand as the oldest surviving structures on the site. The initial phase of this initiative concluded in August last year, with the second and final phase currently in progress.
In addition to the blockshops restoration, the creation of the beloved Market Kitchen street food hall and event space has been a highlight of the £14 million refurbishment project. Moreover, the council has successfully obtained planning approval for the construction of a new hotel and gym on the George Street side of the Grade I listed market building.
Whether you’re in search of fresh produce, unique gifts, or simply a taste of local life, Leeds Market offers an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of this dynamic city www.leeds.gov.uk/LeedsMarkets
