Decision details

To agree recommendations to support the delivery of workspace for new creative businesses in Leeds City Centre, including utilisation of Council assets to support inclusive growth.

The Director of City Development submitted a report which presented a series of recommendations on how the Council could support the provision of workspaces for small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) and creative businesses in Leeds City Centre.

It was highlighted that the proposals detailed within the submitted report looked to achieve the ambitions as set out within the Leeds Inclusive Growth Strategy (Minute No. 7 refers), and it was noted that the Director of City Development would return to the Board with proposals regarding the redevelopment of Aire Street Workshops and the Engine House, following the expression of interest stage.

The Board highlighted the important role played by SMEs and creative businesses in the city, and in reiterating the ‘federal’ nature of the Leeds economy, Members highlighted the need to ensure that affordable accommodation for SMEs and creative businesses were available throughout the city.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That approval be given to reaffirm the Council’s commitment to a city centre that includes a diversity of uses and has affordable and accessible spaces for new, creative businesses;

(b)  That approval be given for the Director of City Development to invite Expressions of Interest for the redevelopment / refurbishment of Aire Street Workshops and the Engine House, as per the principles as contained within paragraph 3.2.1 of the submitted report;

(c)  That the Director of City Development be requested to report backwith recommendations on the preferred way forward for the redevelopment of Aire Street Workshops and the Engine House upon the conclusion of the Expression of Interest stage;

(d)  That the Director of City Development be requested to work with stakeholders in order to develop longer term plans to support the delivery of workspaces for creative and start-up businesses in the city centre, which can inform the creation of a small grants programme as part of the consideration of next year’s Capital Programme;

(e)  That it be noted that the Chief Asset Management and Regeneration Officer will be responsible for the implementation of such matters.

Engagement with Elected Members

Executive Member for Economy and Culture

Executive Member for Regeneration, Transport and Planning

Local Ward Members

Surrounding landowners and occupiers of Council assets