Proposals call for new Leeds innovation district

Senior councillors in Leeds are set to hear proposals calling for the creation of an innovation district that could catalyse a new burst of economic development for the city.

Next week (July 27), members of Leeds City Council’s executive board will be asked to back the formation of a partnership between the council, a hospital and two universities to deliver the innovation zone concept.

If approved, the plans will create an area that brings together city institutions with a view to attracting new research facilities, providing work spaces, creating development opportunities and providing new high-density housing for skilled workers.

The district would incorporate the main city centre campuses of the University of Leeds and Leeds Beckett University, as well as the Leeds General Infirmary and the council’s buildings in the Civic Quarter.

City council Leader Cllr Judith Blake 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.”

She continued: “It is envisaged that the district would enable business creation and growth, and promote inward investment by enabling and encouraging collaboration between businesses, entrepreneurs, universities, health professionals and government leaders.

“It could also create job and education opportunities and inspire young people and help them to fulfil their ambitions.”

The University of Leeds’ vice chancellor, Sir Alan Langlands, commented: “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.”

He added: “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.”

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