A magnificent seven months of work on site sees Land Securities’ Trinity Leeds development – the largest retail-led scheme currently under construction outside London – is on target for its spring 2013 opening.
The 1 million sq ft retail and leisure development is expected to lift Leeds to fourth place in the UK rankings above Manchester. Lettings are approaching 60% and the transformation of Albion Street, a key thoroughfare at the heart of the development, is well underway.
Advanced construction work at Trinity Leeds
Work recommenced on the £350 million scheme last summer and was a clear indication of a return in investor confidence.
It will create major employment, training and career opportunities for local people, including 1,000 construction jobs and opportunities for up to 3,000 retail staff.
Andrew Dudley, who is heading the Trinity Leeds development for Land Securities, said: “We are extremely pleased with our progress on site, including the transformation of Albion Street.”
“The £10m rejuvenation programme includes removal of outdated structures and a complete transformation of the street including the installation of a fabulous glass walkway, which, once complete, will float above the new bustling shops beneath.
“As you walk around the streets surrounding Trinity Leeds, you can clearly see the progress as the steelwork rises high above you.”
He added: “Our development with its signature design features will make Leeds stand out and the scheme will house some of the best in national and international retailers and leisure operators – including the first Everyman cinema outside the south east and Conran-designed restaurants, following D&D London’s decision to book two places at the Trinity Leeds table.”
Tom Riordan, chief executive of Leeds City Council, who recently visited the construction site, said: “A recent Centre for Cities report put Leeds among the top five UK locations with the most potential for creating private sector jobs and Trinity, alongside our own Arena project, which is also due to open in 2013, will deliver a double boost.”
