On behalf of Leeds City Council, I would like to welcome the opening of the Leeds Trinity University City Campus. It was brilliant to attend the launch event at the beginning of October 2024.

The City Council’s vision for Inclusive Growth in Leeds reflects our commitment to ensuring that economic growth works for everyone in our city.

In Leeds, we are dedicated to fostering an economy that uplifts all individuals. This means not only improving skills and creating better jobs but also investing in our infrastructure to meet the diverse needs of our communities.

This commitment goes beyond mere rhetoric. We are implementing targeted programs that address the barriers faced by our residents, particularly those in underrepresented communities. By providing access to training and education, we empower individuals to enter the workforce and secure meaningful employment - and it’s really exciting to have Leeds Trinity and their new campus right at the centre of that.

Leeds Trinity is known in our city region for creating opportunities for students from a wide range of socio-economic backgrounds and underrepresented demographics. Its development into the city centre supports the Council’s commitment to inclusive growth, which begins in the heart of Leeds.

Supporting regeneration

Our city centre serves as the economic heart of the entire West Yorkshire region, home to a wealth of knowledge-intensive firms, universities, and businesses, all complemented by a vibrant cultural landscape.

Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, our city centre has demonstrated remarkable resilience. We’ve seen record-breaking levels of student residential development and the delivery of new office spaces. High-profile organisations like Channel 4, the Bank of England, the UK Infrastructure bank and Microsoft are establishing a presence here, further solidifying our city as a hub of opportunity.

But we’re not stopping there. The launch of Leeds Trinity University’s new City Campus is a major step toward regenerating the area. This is not just about physical spaces; it’s about creating environments that foster collaboration and innovation, for example between education and business, ensuring that our workforce is not only skilled but also adaptable to a rapidly changing economy.

We are also excited about the retail developments on Briggate, the revitalisation of Kirkgate Market, and the ongoing development of the Southbank, which are about more than just economic metrics; they enhance the quality of life for all.

Plans for the future

As we move forward, we must ensure that growth benefits the communities surrounding the city centre—communities that have often felt isolated due to busy roads and outdated infrastructure. Earlier this year, the government unveiled its ‘Vision for Leeds,’ which aims to build 20,000 new homes and improve connectivity, ensuring that education and employment opportunities are accessible to all.

Cultural organisations play a vital role in this vision, and transport is another crucial area where we are making significant strides. We are committed to improving connectivity across Leeds with plans for a regional Mass Transit system. This system will drive economic growth, and help retain graduates, creating a more connected and vibrant city.

Investing in talent and skills is vital for our city’s future. The new Leeds Trinity City Campus, along with developments at Leeds City College and the new Leeds Mathematics School, signifies a commitment to education and lifelong learning.

The new campus will be part of the Leeds Innovation Arc, integrating repurposed heritage spaces with new housing and public realm. By creating this vibrant ecosystem, we will empower our young people and equip them with the skills necessary to thrive in a competitive job market.

Collaboration and partnership

The journey toward Inclusive Growth in Leeds is a shared responsibility. Our partnership with organisations like Leeds Trinity University as part of our Anchor Network is essential. Together, we can maximise our impact and ensure that the benefits of growth are felt citywide, and that jobs in Leeds lead to proper career trajectories. 

This collaboration extends beyond educational institutions to include businesses, community organisations, and local government, creating a robust support system for our residents. We are committed to making Leeds a city where growth is measured not just in economic terms but in the wellbeing and prosperity of all its residents.