Decision details

To consider options for the future location of the Leeds Visitor Centre.

The Director of City Development submitted a report which provided a summary of the research and analysis undertaken to review the future options for the Leeds Visitor Centre service. The report identified a proposal which would achieve both the approved budget saving and would also increase the effectiveness and efficiency of the service. In addition, the report sought approval to vacate the current premises and pursue the option to relocate the Leeds Visitor Centre to the Art Gallery Shop and Café located on The Headrow, Leeds.

Four potential options were outlined within the submitted report. One was to cease the current service, whilst the other three remaining options considered different locations from which it could operate.

The Board considered a number of issues including: the current location of the centre and whether it was best placed to maximise the service it provided, the rapid shifts in technology and the evolving way in which people now obtained information, the increased commercial offer which was now being provided from within the Leeds City train station and the discussions which had been held with Network Rail in respect of such matters and whether further negotiations should be held with the organisation.

In conclusion, the Board highlighted the excellent service that was provided by the staff working at the Visitors Centre.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That approval be given to vacate the existing Leeds Visitor Centre premises at the city station on account of the expiry of the current lease;

(b)  That the proposal to integrate the Leeds Visitor Centre with the Art Gallery Shop and Café located on The Headrow, Leeds, be agreed;

(c)  That as a consequence of the resolutions above, the Council bring the service back in house as part of the move and as part of the proposed integration of the service, outlined within the submitted report;

(d)  That it be noted that the Director of City Development has delegated authority to finalise contractual terms associated with the expiry of the current lease and to establish appropriate interim arrangements for the transfer of the service to the new premises;

(e)  That it be noted that the Head of Strategic Planning, City Development, will be responsible for the implementation of the agreed resolutions, as detailed above.

Throughout the process discussions have been held with a wide range of stakeholders

Executive Member (Transport and Economy)

Executive Member (Digital & Creative Technologies, Culture & Skills)

Director City Development

The Chief Executive, Leeds and Partners

Network Rail,

METRO,

Land Securities,

Other Core Cities

Visit England

Staff and Trade Union (TU) representatives