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Leeds Corn Exchange: YOUR VIEWS - UPDATED 14th JAN

Tenants in the Leeds Corn Exchange shopping centre are being kicked out so it can be turned into a food emporium.

We asked for your views on the shock move and here they are.

To join in the debate, or to sound off, click here. We'll publish the lot.

To read how the story broke, click here.

To read today's story, click here.

YOUR VIEWS:

hello, i go to the corn exchange every weekend, to see friends who i dont see throguh the week and to just hang out, the shops in there are the coolest shops ever and them being kicked out is sad, us people who are different froma lot of others really dont get any where to go because people say we're scary? or weirdos? but the "YOBS" or "CHAVS" get to roam wherever they feel? but we are put in one place, im sure we dont midn and peopel will agreee, but after the corn exchange has gone, where can we go then? its been the place of many happy times in my life and i know im getting older but i want younger people to be able to enjoy it liek i have...

samboy

****

I am sorry to hear that there is a wish to close yet another wonderful structure of the past -- the Corn Exchange in Leeds --- Why oh Why do people want to change things for 'the better' when the better is already there, loved by many, when will councils/contractors learn we don't need more, and leave things as they are,

Yours Sincerely

Phil Tittensor

Hereford

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hi,

I dont think the corn exchange should be turned into a food area, that just stupid. I love the shop in that place and ive always bought my clothes and other wonderful things from the corn exchange.

My favourite shops are in the corn Exchange, if you get ride of them that will really up set me and other people.

Other people will agree with me that the cornexchange has a great shop for young people, alternative people and who ever else wants to shop their it be a shame for the place to be turned into another wasteful food court.

DO NOT GET RIDE OF THE GREAT SHOP IN THERE !

JESS

****

I was horrified to discover that yet again big companies are willing to destroy small scale buisness in the name of profits. Zurich's actions are dispicable and unethical. Unfortunatly they are becoming more common. Leeds deserves more than another historic building filled with starbucks, costacoffes and Macdonalds. I am glad to show my support for the shops in the corn exchange and their unique flavour. More so, I am glad to see people speaking out against this corperate takeover.

Yours Sinceraly

Timothy Richards

****

Heya

im Beth Oldfield

i Started the protest on Saturday and it was a awsome day

Dont you think

Well i just wanted you to know that i started it , well , i half started it because some else told me so i made a myspace for it and lots of people came because of it so thankyou for your time

and my the way the myspace is www.myspace.com/helpthecornxchange

From Beth Oldfield

****

6,092 members on facebook for SAVE THE CORN EXCHANGE!!

Can Zurich not take a hint? They are making a big mistake...And i hope they end up loosing thousands of pounds!!!!!

McDonalds

Burger King

Nando's

Subway

Chinease resturants

Indian resturants

Every kind of resturant you can imagine, why do they seem to think we want more?

The corn exchange, isnt a place for JUST 'emos' 'moshers' and 'goths' as some people think, but for EVERYONE, i am not a lable, i am just me...a normal person. I wear normal clothes, listen to every kind of music and buy what ever clothes i like the look of, just so happens i never buy anything from anywhere else but the corn exchange. It caters for every style & taste...

DONT GET RID OF OUR FAVOURITE SHOPS!!!

Its what makes Leeds so special and attracts millions to come visit.

*****

Dear YEP,

Having been a tenant in the Corn Exchange for over 14 years, this has been a very sad time for us. We legally have 6 months to leave the Corn Exchange but are being constantly harassed by the landlord to leave earlier. We are just so amazed at the level of support that we have had from our customers and the general public as a whole. Thanks so much guys…we will continue to trade if not in the Corn Exchange somewhere else in Leeds, you have been fantastic and we appreciate it!

The best thing that could happen now is for Zurich to sell the lease to some one else so we can get on with what we all want to do… run our shops.

Yours truly, Kirsty at Hippypottermouse

****

Taking out all the shops from the corn exchange is the same as taking the heart out of leeds

if this goes ahead leeds will not be a major shopping city anymore

****

My name is Adam and I have lived around in the Leeds area all my life!

One of the main things that most people do when they come to Leeds is to go have a look in the corn exchange!

This has always been the place for people to go to look at either, weird and wonderful metal work, great architecture, large mix of branded and unbranded shops or just to grab a coffee in one of the few cafes.

I think that the lease holders are either narrow minded or just plain GREADY!

We don't need anymore "trendy restaurants" as Leeds is already voted as one of the best places to go in England with names such as BiBi's and Mio modus.

Lease holders will be shooting themselves in the foot if it was to ever change! For a start all the people I have spoke to with regards to this have all been absolutely GUTTED about the new plans.

Why does it always have to be about money? This is a building is one of the most spectacular examples of history and architecture we have left. Is this going to be another one of the revamping Leeds project?

We have already had enough with the sky line changing everyday.

Get a grip and listen to what people have to say!

Kind Regards and best of luck to the CAMPAIGNERS, you have all our votes!

Adam, 22, Leeds

****

The building is staying so the corn exchange is fine. Good riddance to those shops in there. There is not a decent one in there that sells good stuff at good prices!!! The money they have had fleecing people will be enough for them to set up elsewhere. I have never bought anything decent in there and high prices for poor shops stops me going in. food and drink will get me in more.

For and on behalf of Cooper Kenyon Burrows

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SAVE CORN EXCHANGE - HANDS OFF KIRKGATE MARKET - PROTEST SATURDAY 1ST DECEMBER 2PM - IN FRONT OF CORN EXCHANGE

The 'gentrification' of the Corn Exchange is only one example of what is happening to Leeds City Centre. The Kirkgate Market next door is also due for refurbishment and could end up being an extension of the Victoria Quarter. Independent and diverse spaces are being squeezed out to the point that Leeds will be turned into just another Clone Town.

If you want Leeds to keep its own character and individuality, defend public spaces for all, and retain local control over local assets and landmarks, come on Saturday at 2pm.

PASS THIS ON.

JOIN FACEBOOK GROUP! (+1,000 members)

http://leedsac.facebook.com/group.php?gid=5799994302

SIGN ONLINE PETITION

http://www.gopetition.co.uk/petitions/save-leeds-corn-exchange.html

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I'm horrifed that the owners can simply announce such a huge change as this and tell us that it will be good for Leeds, without asking anyone first if they want it. I don't think it will come as much of a comfort to Leeds residents like me who love shopping there that it will "attract shoppers from across the region". Bully for them - it's not their city, they won't have been deprived of what came before it! The Corn Exchange is a genuinely unique and wonderful area of Leeds. If business has been dropping off there, the owners should find new ways to encourage people to come back, not just scrap it and turn it round as if it's just an etch-a-sketch which they can shake up and redraw willy-nilly. The only folorn hope we have is that if we boycott the new development, they'll realise they were wrong - but I doubt that will be of much comfort or use to the shops who have been moved out, or the most likely honest and industrious traders who move in. This stinks.

****

I am a 15 year old teen, who has different tastes to that of many teenagers around today, so imagine my outrage when i found out that many stores i shop at would be closing down to make way for yet another food court. In the area around the corn exchange there are no less than 11 places to purchase food and or drink, including restaraunts, healthy option stores and convinience food. These include: 2 mcdonalds, a burger king, 2 starbucks, marks and spencers, nandos, subways, greggs, ainsleys, the bakers oven and many more. So the proposal that the food court will bring more business, is pretty hard to believe with all of the competition, because it is almost guarenteed that the food from these exsisting stores will be much cheaper and more convinient for public use. Not only this but all the food stores are either on briggate close to all the shops, or a short walk away in the safe pedestrianised zone. Whereas the corn exchange is across a busy road which is hazardous if you have to keep an eye on very young children, and surrounded by socialising teens who addmitedley are harmless but intimidating even if you are part of that crowd.

Also there is already a suitable cafe area on the bottom floor, which brings almost no profit in compared to the specialised shops upstairs. Not to mention the fact that if it were not for specialised shops Plc winning a contract to re-develop the corn exchange into a shopping ''mall'' the building would have remained deralict and costed money without bringing any in. So the stores which have brought the owners of the corn exchange so much income, are now being replaced by a food store, which I hope brings them a great loss. The stores are specialised to specific needs and tastes making each one a high order shop only found in the central business district in the leeds area, and for all of them to be in the same building is a great convinience to all, as the stores do not take up one building each in the briggate area. As many people may not know a high order shop will bring in more money than that of a low order shop e.g a corner shop. The corn exchange shops aren't just there for shopping, they help bring a community together. So in short if the plans to re-develop the corn exchange go ahead, I hope that the owners suffer a decline in profits and income, lose customers, and gain a bad reputation because as it stands the corn exchange stores are perfect for many customers, whereas the bound to be expensive restaraunt will have so much competition it will fail to deliver the promised raise in income. Oh and people the bar and restaraunt around the back of the corn ex and kadas to the side, will probably serve better food than the soon to be flop of a resaraunt.

****

It seems to me that Zurich don't care what's best for the people of Leeds at all. All they care about is bringing in a well known restraint chain to sell food to people who are already spoilt for choice. The Corn exchange has been a great place to shop for year's with such a diverse range of shops selling locally produced quality goods.

To replace the traders with eatery's under the guise of "returning the Corn Exchange to it's original use" is a load of rubbish.

Zurich are not turning the Corn Exchange into a food wholesalers, they're turning it into a restaurant. They will tell you that the trader's can move into the Market, is that not what a market is for? Maybe, but my last visit to the Market revealed the place has not changed in the almost 30 years I've had the displeasure of stepping through it's doors.

Indeed, if you kick out the traders from the Corn Exchange you loose the very reason people are attracted to it. Every town has a restaurant. In Leeds City Centre's case hundreds.

Andy Kyle. Armley, Leeds.

****

Surely it would make so much more sense to retain the Corn Exchange as it stands, it's one of the most popular shopping areas in Leeds - Grin and On the Wall alone make it well worth going in, a food court would destroy the entire atmosphere of the building and in no way cater towards the services that are currently provided in a fantastic centralised location.

****

I have noticed that the 'goths' and 'emos' have started facebook campaigns to try to stop what is going on and if you ask me its pathetic. Most of their lives seem to revolve around going to Corn Exchange every weekend just to hang outside, often getting drunk. Don't they have anything better to do?

What they don't appreciate is that just hanging around their isn't going to save it and its probably their actions that are causing it to fall into decline. If they really want to save it they need to go into the stores and spend money like mad. A business cannot survive if no one buys anything from it.

I may of offended a few people with my views, but maybe when the 'goths' and 'emos' grow up they might realize that the change was for the better and that their actions were a bit niaive.

Nic Emms, 16

****

Having lived in or near Leeds all my life, and having spent plenty of hard-earned cash in the Corn Exchange's many charming shops and stalls, I was deeply saddened to hear of its impending demise.

The Corn Exchange used to be one of those amazing shopping gems, like the famous Affleck's Palace in Manchester, where you could pick up almost anything, from the exquisite to the bizarre, or indeed browse all day long without being hassled to buy. It had a sense of community, between shopkeepers, stall holders and shoppers, and was always bustling with people.

It doesn't take a genius to realize however, that if you start taking away the shops, and fill the place with builders making noise and mess, that even the most well-loved destination will start to struggle. Without support, this brief falter can easily become a downward spiral, especially when it is being given a hearty shove by the nice people at Zurich.

For someone who knew the Corn Exchange at its best, this is an absolutely painful process to watch. I have the greatest sympathy for all business owners involved, and support their plight wholeheartedly.

What really twists the knife for me though, is the purpose for which the Corn Exchange is being 'reclaimed'. Do we hear the people of Leeds crying out for a world-class gourmet foods emporium? Do we really..?

Anon

****

Not only will this plan destroy the diverse range of shops and stalls (the diversity of which has been sadly diminished over the years thanks mainly to the building's management), but it will mean that the only way anyone can access this beautiful and historical building is by paying lots of money for a meal. The majority of Leeds residenst are not rich restaurant-going people, but the city centre is already almost completely devoted to the minority who are. The last thing we need is for the Corn Exchange to go the same way.

Catherine Tonge

Burley

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Corn Exchange become a "food emporium" , "rejuvenating" kirkgate market. Sounds like a nice plan for people who have plenty of money to spend.

Having new shops and restaurants is all good and well but what about all the people who can't afford to shop there and visit the corn exchange for affordable, individual items.

If the corn exchange shuts the other similar shops in the area,( sohos, kyros , Leeds piercing studio..) will lose custom as well. As people have mentioned there are a lot of teenagers who hang outside the corn exchange, if it closes these new shops won't want them but they wont just disappear. They are likely to congregate somewhere else which causes more hassle to everyone. Yet again this is an example of the big companies profiting at the expense of everyone else. I feel sorry for the remaining shop owners and the ones who have already been driven out.

****

Can I just say that the corn exchange is NOT just for emos and goths and other sorts of alternative people but for everyone. It's one of the only places that encompasses everyone's tastes and individualism. The corn exchange is renowned for being unique, many people recommended it on of the first things I visit when I came to Leeds, as in inturn one of the things I recommend to other people. I have seen so many different types of people in the building some may look a little scary becuase they look different, but the majority are people are your average shopper. Just today I went in and there where lots of grandmas and grannies, parents, young couples, students and a few teenagers.

It's not the fact that Zurich are turning it into a food court that is most outrageous, it is the fact that they are doing it without any kind of market research. Surely it is not about what Leeds needs but what the People of Leeds want, and by the looks of the comments, most of Leeds whats a unique place to shop in.

Also where else can you find something that is completly hand made and at a good price? and honestly do people really think that the 'goth and emo intimidating crowd' will really stop gathering outside there? of course not! The corn exchange is a symbol it's self not just shops inside that help express individualism but the whole building does. So it seems silly to suggest that just because there wont be these kind of shops outside that young kids who want to express themselves and need somwhere to hang out, wont be doing it there.

It is also undenyable that Leeds has a HUGE student community which the corn exchange greatly caters for, There are not very many independant shops like this in Leeds city centre, unless you go to hyde park, with shops like atticus and the story of O. So surely this will have an impact on many. I do think change is good, but only if people are treated properly and the change is for a good reason. I do not see how trying to kick out independant stall holders before christmas is very professional (and charitable!!) How else are people with independant labels going to be able to progress if they cannot sell!

Essentially The corn exchange change, it an outrage, and I really hope the people will go in to the corn exchange and sign the petition so we can get something done about it.

sorry this is so long!!!! just am so passionate about this matter! hehe Thanks

Hannah Pemberton

***

Hey,

I have only just stumbled across this story about the Corn Exchange being forced to change purpose and am not only shocked about the proposed change but also some of the other comments on the discussion board. After growning up in Leeds I moved to go to university last year and am finding that no other city holds par. This is not purely loyalty or home sickness, I live a stones throw from Lakeside and London, which hold the exactly same large shops as in Leeds but Leeds is an individual - you see small shops along side large highstreet store, this is especially evident in the Corn Exchange. I am proud to be from Leeds for this reason, we have enough fast food places, specialist food shops and a massive market! - Headingly market can keep its food produce! I would love the Corn Exchange (as it is) to be busy and sprunced up when I come home in two years time!

****

the corn exchange has always been a place where indeendant crafts people could sell their work, and this has been the most exciting thing about it. Anyone who has been in recently would agree that there are very few Places that sell 'youth tat' anymore. The corn exchange is a big part of what makes leeds individual and having somewhere to go to buy unique pieces of hand Crafted fasion/textiles/art is important especiallly since leeds's heritage is rich in textiles.

****

What Leeds does not need is a food emporium. The Corn Exchange is one of the most beautiful and interesting attractions in Leeds, changing its function will change this. Does anyone remember what happened to Granary Wharf? Once a hub of exciting shops and stalls and alternative events, now a soulless, cavernous shell of what it once was. I urge Zurich Assurance to reconsider; even if it's for no other reason than that it is likely to be a very costly mistake. The people of Leeds have long memories and don't forgive easily - Zurich might also want to think about this when wondering who their target market might be... I think I'll be going to the Food Emporium in John Lewis, when it opens!

****

The Corn Exchange has been degraded by its use as an emporium selling tat aimed at youth. It deserves better and this scheme could be the answer. At the same time, Leeds needs to look at the future of the City Markets. A focus on better food shopping, rather than cheap clothes etc, could help meet a major deficiency in the city centre, especially if more flexible opening hours were possible. The success of the Headingley farmers' market reflects public demand for quality foodstuffs, which could be largely sourced in Yorkshire.

****

I'd like to lodge my support of the tenants and stall holders of the Corn Exchange. The stalls there add individuality, colour and interest to city centre shopping, and we have quite enough food emporiums etc. Leeds has already lost a large number of independent and small shops and it would be tragic if we lost more as.

Best wishes

Lynette Willoughby

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OK, so i thought i'd give people some more information on the Corn X forced closure to retailers.

I am an ex store owner from the Corn X and am one of the people who was forced to close due to the clever way in which Zurich Assurance/Phoenix Beard have manipulated the situation in the building since they took over.

Approximately 2 years ago, we ( the tenants) had heard a rumour from a reliable source, that the Corn X was to be turned into a food emporium, when we questioned Rod Witton (one of the head men at Phoenix Beard) about this in a tenants meeting, it was flatly denied and we were told that "there were no plans drawn up for any other kind of business venture and it was to continue in the same tradition as it had always done".

Since Zurich took over the Corn X, the advertising has got less and less and the state of the centre was getting poorer and poorer (the obvious rennovations not included). We questioned constantly why things where not being done and why nothing was being advertised and why they seemed totally disinterested in the lack of footfall in the centre.

This went on consistently with the tenants and stall holders being made to feel like they were in the dark and constantly being concerned about the high rents and service charges that we were being charged, coupled with the fact that we felt that there was no value for money or benefit to us being there anymore and Zurich just didn't seem to be bothered. This was why we were all concerned that something else was going on, because you'd think that with more and more empty units appearing, they would start to do something as they would be losing money in rent... unless they had other plans?

Certain tenants sought legal advice, some just upped and left and some went completely under.

All in all, it's an absolute tragedy, which in some cases has destroyed some peoples livelihoods. The centre has been run into the ground so that people would leave, so that by the time it came to tell everyone they had to go by the end of the year, there would be very minimal compensation needed to be payed out. Convenient don't you think?

Now I know when people read this, certain parties will accuse me of lying and being bitter, saying that I am looking to blame someone for the closure of my business, some will know that I am speaking the truth, having been involved themselves and some people will never be sure who to listen to, but when all is said and done, I had some amazing times in that building and I met some amazing people and I wouldn't take a day of it back.

I do not oppose change and I think that improvements needed to be made to the centre, but the way the tenants have been trampled under foot is dispicable and unfortunately, Zurich will more than likely get away with it. They have definitely ripped the independent retail heart out of Leeds.

My sincerest wishes go out to all the stall holders and remaining tenants hanging on, who are being given an unhappy christmas from Zurich Assurance this year and I wish them the very best for their futures.

Name withheld.

****

I have been trading in the corn exchange for the last three years and have personally seen the miss management of the centre to a point were something had to be done. The landlords have re-furbished the building to the cost of 1.5m and it looks great. Like all business the landlord wants a return on his investment and thinks a food emporium is the way to go which in my opinion isn't a bad idea but do feel they could of incorporated everyone with good managment. So good luck to them they are going to need it. If any retailer thinking of going in be warned the management company who run the corn exchange are pathetic. From advertising, accounts, tenant management, and security they are diabolical and are the one main reasons the centre has been failing and im afraid to say will probably continue to do so.

****

It's a shame this is taking place, as the Corn Exchange is a unique and quality building with all it's independent stores and pleasent atmosphere inside. However the constant throng of sad goths loitering outside surely hasn't helped and has given the surrounding area rather a joke reputation, their insistance on continually gathering in large groups in some perverse pursuit of self-inflicted depression and negativity has surely contributed to a slowdown in business and the downfall of the Exchange as it currently stands.

Rob, Leeds

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Zurich Assurance claim they are embracing the Corn Exchange's history with their plans to change it into a "food emporium". In reality, surely it's just a cunning disguise for them to make more money by booting out the current tenants and charging much higher rent for the owners of these "premium dining, food and drink" outlets? The same people who have kept it such a pleasant place to visit all these years are now going to be evicted, which is nothing less than shameful - I hope this new plan flops.

****

It seems bizarre to me to sweep aside everything that is there now to replace it with something else without any thought to creating something

diverse and vibrant. A food emporium will I am sure do well, but it is

unlikely to attract people 24/7, whereas a diverse range of outlets that retains some of the individuality and quirkiness that is there now would I think have a greater chance of surviving long term.

It is disturbing to hear of traders being summarily booted out, but you can bet your life that their leases included the rights of the landlord to

terminate if there was an overarching need. As tenants they should have

ensured that there was sufficient protection for themselves.

As for those that poo-poo the interests and importance of the hoards of Goths that hang around, remember you were young once - and your blue suede

shoes were just as intimidating to your predecessors. That is the nature

of life. Wearing black nail polish doesn't make someone a thug.

Steve Jenkins

****

I think the planned changes are great - I may not agree with the way the tenants have been treated but if a business is failing then they have to change it!

Im sorry but a load of goths with their pocket money isnt enough to keep a shopping centre going, and the large groups outside at a weekend are threatening, and I am sure it puts alot of people off going in there.

Im looking forward to a food emporium, these types of shopping centres have been really popular in other cities and I think it will be a major tourist pull and reflect the beauty of the building well, with lots of people going in who will spend money to make Leeds' economy better.

Im sorry to the emos, goths etc but maybe when you are a bit older you'll realise that the economy of a city is important and you cant just keep something going because you like it! Zurich wont have come up with this idea overnight, lots of work and research will have gone into it, so I am sure it will be a success!

Mary, Leeds

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I think its absolutely appauling that they're thinking of turning the Corn X into some food emporium!!!!!!

Although I don't frequent the shops that often, I have multiple friends and relations that do, and I love the fact that you have so many diverse shops in such a small area. As for banning the small stallholders thing, give me a break!!!!! You're taking away their livelihood for something that we quite clearly DON'T NEED!!!!!!!!!!!

I've lived in Leeds my whole life, and I've watched some of my favourite places being refurbished and changed and shut down etc. Anyone remember the Schofield's Centre??? Thats what the St John's Centre was called about 10 years ago, and when it got refurbished and re-named the whole attitude of the place had changed. Its taken me this long to start shopping in there again.

This scheme is REDICULOUS, don't these people realise that there's enough places, both upmarket and downmarket, to eat in Leeds? We DO NOT need any more eateries in this city! But where can you find alternative clothing (Grin), Beads (Yum Yum Beads), PLUS old records and LP's (one of the small stallholders) in one place?

Thats right, nowhere.

As a student living in Leeds I am disgusted at the way the shopowners and stallholders of the Corn X are being treated in the run up to Christmas, and sincerely hope that Zurich reconsider their huge mistake before its too late.

Companies like this are slowly sucking the life out of Leeds, and I for one will not be going anywhere near the place if this refurbishment goes through.

Pam Holmes

19 years old

****

Nothing like being afraid of change is there? You are all talking about how vibrant and fresh and new and exciting Leeds is. How do you think Leeds gets this reputation? By standing still? By never evolving? Whether a large food emporium is your thing or not, the fact is that it will be something new, vibrant and exciting for Leeds and will re-generate some of the lost interest in a city that already struggles to keep up with other big cities nearby. As for losing independent, arty shops…open your eyes and have a walk around Leeds, there are many more wonderful and exciting shops if you just start to use your imaginations. The corn exchange as it stands at the moment is dirty and tired and lacks imagination and spirit. As for the retailers who have been treated unfairly, (yes, I agree with that), try Kirkgate market! Nobody seems to be too bothered about the fact that Kirkgate market is an absolute dive full of shops selling absolute garbage do they? Try getting some diversity and culture in there.

Martin - Leeds resident for 33 years

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I would just like to say that ever since I moved to Leeds seven years ago to do my MA I have done the majority of my Christmas shopping in the Corn Exchange. The variety of shops on offer is unparalleled anywhere in the region and the quality that is offered is fabulous.

Leeds doesn't need another food emporium, there are plenty of great places in Leeds to go out and eat, what there aren't are treasures like the shops in the Corn Exchange which attracts visitors to the city because of the unique gifts sold.

KEEP THE CORN EXCHANGE AS IT IS!!!!!!!!

All the best with the campaign.

Paul Arrowsmith

****

I find the idea of turning the Corn Exchange in to a food emporium an utter disgrace to the individualism and diversity of Leeds City Centre.

There are plenty of places to eat around the city and if you really want to buy designer pots and pans then just walk along Vicar Lane to Peter Maturi.

It doesn't make sense to just get rid of the craft fair or the traders such as Hippypottermouse. They sell unique items which bring custom from miles away. I myself shop quite regularly at Hippypottermouse and I hold Cath and Kirsty in the highest regard. They always have time for a smile and a chat and are always willing to help, where else can you honestly find this in Leeds City Centre other than at the Corn Exchange?

I don't understand the appeal of making the Corn Exchange into a food emporium, why would Zurich want to take such a striking building full of fantastic traders and businesses and make it into a commercial eatery? It doesn't make economical sense, not when so many other restaurants, etc. are struggling for business in and around the area.

As for the way the traders have been treated, it is disgusting. After they stayed loyal during the refurbishment, they are dropped with little or no notice in the run up to Christmas. This is their busiest time of year, I know I was planning on shopping at the Corn Exchange, and their main, and in some cases only, source of income has been taken away with no regard for the traders themselves.

For many years, me and my family, have shopped at the Corn Exchange because you could find unique gifts and fantastic clothes there. If Zurich have any sense, they'll change their minds and keep the traders and stalls that make the Corn Exchange what it is, the heart of Leeds City Centre.

Nat Burrows

****

such changes would mean a terrible loss for Leeds, already wounded by the destruction that occured in Granary Wharfe. I fail to comprehend how people sleep at night with the knowledge of the destruction being caused to a city's soul, its pride. It seems that only once a city has lost its identity and thus people attach no meaning and respect to it, do councils attempt a 'regeneration process', such as is occuring in Bradford. How wonderful it would be if a city's status was not lost in the first place. How lucky Leeds is to currently have the option to stay alive! The Corn Exchange is/was alive - it changed constantly with the seasons, reflecting current concerns and political opinions, a place where people could express themselves; it is this individuality that will attract tourism, not what is already amply being offered by the Victoria Quarter.

Samantha, Leeds

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i hate the big corporate companies doing this to smaller companies, the corn exchange had some great shops in it and i hope that if the shops do get kicked out that the cafe thing taking over fails miserably. i love those shops and i buy loads of things from them

SAVE THE CORN EXCHANGE!!!!

Steve

****

I THINK THE WHOLE FABRIC OF OUR SOCIETY IS BEING UNDERMINED BY HUGE OUTSIDE ORGANISATIONS.

WHY ON EARTH DO WE NEED MORE FOOD OUTLETS IN THIS ALREADY OBESITY RIDDEN COUNTRY

****

I am writing to you regarding the current story about the corn exchange! I am an artist who was promised a stall to sell my paintings (which i have done previously) at the corn exchange on completion of its 'rennovation'.

My name was put down on the 'stall holders list'.After many months and attempts to get in touch by phone I went to the management office and was told to ring them another day as they were due to have talks with the landlords about when the craft fair was to begin again.

After many phone calls involving me being told to ring back week after week I found out on the news that the building was to be changed into a food emporium. I am so saddened by this news. Im 23 and was hoping to really get my business growing.My previous stalls at the cx were really successful and i was looking forward to building some regular custom and exposure.

It has left me in sufficient debt as i have been getting all my work ready to sell over the last few months and have taken on another job in order to fund myself until i got my stall. I am now left with alot of paintings to sell and all other markets and fairs fully booked. I feel for shop owners and other stall holders who have been led on and dissapointed by the people at the corn exchange.

Earlier notification of these changes could have made things a little easier on us, especially at this time of year when many people make most of their money, but I really dont know where else in leeds there is for independent artists and designers to start a business. the corn exchange has been the birthplace of many successful businesses, for example Dawn Stretton and Aqua are now fledging designer boutiques who have moved into larger retail units in the town centre.

There is nowhere else for the shops to go. Everyone who I have spoken to is truly disappointed that the corn exchange is no longer going to be the vibrant, friendly and thoroughly individual place it once was.

There are so many great food stalls and shops in leeds market and amazing restaurants in town that i just dont understand the need for more 'foody' places. we need culture, art, innovation and an escape from the chain stores which line streets like briggate and the headrow. sadly we have just lost that along with the livelyhoods of many talented people who are being forced away from a place in which they thrived.

Thanks

Rebecca Todd

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I visit Leeds to play in Football Charity matches at Elland Road every year. I was ecstatic to find a real jewel when I wandered into the Corn Exchange. What fabulous artistic stuff is available to everyone in the lovely stores there. It'll be a shame to gentrify the Corn Exchange. The council should be actively attract more artisans to the Exchange.

cheers,

Kal Sandhu in Silicon Valley, California.

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leeds city council should have never let zuric lease the building . me and my friends have created a protest group called save corn x. we are protesting about this.

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Yes, it's a shame and downright wrong the way the tenants are being evicted but come on, something HAS to be done about that place. It has steadily declined over the years and will never reach the exciting shopping centre status it had when it was first converted in the early 90's. It showed such promise back then, it was exciting, vibrant & interesting, none of those terms can be used to describe it now. On a weekend it's just a hang out for dossers and young kids, not the kind of people who can bring a good turnover into the centre. It was classier when it first opened. There was a very good social meeting place in the large caf in the basement, a great little American Diner, a classy night time bar and a wide variety of good quality independent stores. Since that caf and bar disappeared it slowly took a downward turn until we get to what it is today, a dirty, unloved shopping centre. Totally revamp it, give it the love and care it deserves and put it back on the map. Whatever they turn it into will generate new interest in the area. Companies like this don't do these kind of things on a whim, all this hoohah will be forgotten in 18 months time and we'll be discussing how great the Corn Exchange (not Corn-Ex! Sheesh, the texting generation eh?) has become after it's transformation. Dean West

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I have set up an online petition on facebook if anyone would like to join on there? It is one of the most powerful ways now to advertise something!

Lets get behind this and not cause it to turn into a food emporium...there is no need!

If you type SAVE LEEDS CORN EXCHANGE.

The group is there! Support the cause!

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It's a real shame! The Corn Exchange was one of the shopping centres with the strongest character in the whole of England and now they want to transform it into an average venue.

The shops that were in the Corn Exchange were the perfect ones for it, and we can't allow these changes to happen!

****

Sadly it doesn't surprise me one little bit. They ruined Granary Wharf by ripping the heart out of it, and now it's going to happen again with the Corn Exchange.

It appears that Leeds is desperate to become another clone city who's only concern is money, and attracting big name shops. I used to come over from Hull for the fantastic stalls and entertainment at Granary Wharf, and after moving to Leeds I myself have had stalls at the Corn Exchange. It appears that this is another nail in the coffin of individuality in Leeds. I shall continue to take part in the excellent Mosaic arts and craft market, and at the same time, I offer my whole hearted support to all those at the Corn Exchange who have been well and truly shafted by big business.

Gill Ford, Leeds

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Me and my friends are gonna protest and help save the best thing tht has have evere happend to Leeds.

The council and the owners have been unfair to the shop tenants.

All i can say now is we all need to stcik together and save the corn xchange.

from Daniel Payne

regular around corn xchange

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Just received the good news that the stallholders can continue to trade up until christmas. Having been trading at the Corn Exchange for the past 11 years selling my jewellery - it's a massive relief. We all appreciate the support we've received from the public and we would urge everybody to continue to support us by coming to see us at the Corn Exchange. Make the most of the time we have left.

Debbie

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I think its awful how they are just kicking traders out, especially at this time of year. My opinion is that after the corn exchange had changed it wont get as many visitors as it does now, and wont be as appealing, so they will be loosing out.

Dan Peacock - Dewsbury

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Having worked for quite some time a few years ago I would like to know how long it envisaged that the Corn Exchange would remain closed to bring the shop units up to a standard fit for food sale. To my knowledge none of the units, apart from the basement area, are supplied with water or drainage facilities which I assume are a pre-requisite for the sale of food.

Jim Marshall

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I have lived in Leeds all my life and the Corn Exchange has always been a fantastic place with a lot of character.

The building is superb but it has always been the shop owners in the building who have created that wonderful atmosphere.

The fact that their businesses are been moved out with such short notice is nothing short of appalling and the people from Zurich should be ashamed that they couldn't

handle this is a more organised manner. I don't personally think the place will work as a food emporium because Leeds is already packed with restaurants fighting for business.

Just a quick message for the lady from Hippopotomouse, I will sadly miss your store it is fabulous and I really think you should go and trade on the international markets. You will make a fortune, failing that keep going and turn to Ebay; at least they can't evict you and treat you so badly.

Kind Regards

Pete Schofield

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Following on from reading your article on the Corn Exchange I was appalled to hear of Zurichs plans to close the building to retailers. Are you aware if there are already any protest groups set up to prevent this happening?

Sophie

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I have been trading at the Corn Exchange craft fair now for the past 5 years selling handmade jewellery.Yesterday morning I was told by voice mail that I would not be trading there again.Through out the summer myself and many of the tradders have been trading in very bad conditions with the scaffolding and refurbishment works. We stayed loyal to Zurich trying to keep the craft fair alive and in some cases working at a lose to keep an interest in the centre. Because the summer was so quite we were relying on the Christmas trade to be able to pull back our buisiness's. We have all invested hours of our time making our stock and invested money that now will not beable to be recuperated. Zurich must have been aware of their plans for some time and has not had the decency to inform any of us earlyier in the year so that we could book other venues. It would have bee very easy in the summer to abandon the Corn Exchange and we feel very aggrieved that this is the way we have been paid back for our loyalty. The plans to change the Corn Exchange are not planned to take place till next year so why are we not able to trade untill Christmas. We would appreciate it if Zurich could give us a valid reason as to why they have pulled the rug out from under our business's before Christmas without any notice. Especially when those business's have been loyal to them through the refebishments. If Zurich had had the decency to have informed us of the changes and given us notice that there was no place for the Craft Fair earlier in the year then we would have all been able to make other arrangment's.In fact the stall holders had a meeting with someone from Pheonix Beard when the scaffolding first went up and we were told then that they could not see why there would not be a craft Fair at the Corn Exchange. For all my years of loyalty to the Craft Fair at the Corn Exchange and Zurich my buissnes's was finished with a message left on my voice mail.

JADE JEWELLERY

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A food emporium would be very nice but not in the Corn Exchange – maybe at the other side of town for example near where Safeway used to be, not so close to the market. But more to the point The Corn Exchange should be left as it – an interesting unusual building selling interesting unusual things. Maybe it is aimed at the younger end of the market and I am in my fifties and don't normally shop there, but I appreciate that it is there and is one of the things that makes Leeds an attractive place to shop – yes we do have all the usual High Street shops but we also have the market, the Victoria quarter, the Chinese supermarkets, Harvey Nichols and of course the Corn Exchange and the surrounding area. I fully support the existing traders in the Corn Exchange and long may they remain there.

Daphne Riley

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i have always been able to find the most unusal things as gifts for presents at the corn exchange its the only reason i come into the city to shop.

the way the traders have been treated is deplorable, so close to christmas.

where the hell are the tennants suposed to go.

The owners where quite happy to collect the rent from the tennants while the refurb was happing.The owners dont give a dam.

****

It seems strange to me that a decision has been taken to terminate one of Leeds more successful attractions – apparently without consultation, with no notice and in the run up to Christmas. Now why would they do this?

Furthermore, the idea to transform the building into a dining and food attraction appears to be ill-timed when so many high profile names in the restaurant business are struggling so much – I understand that Leeds has recently had problems with Leodis, Olivers Paris and Hard Rock Caf and that Sous le Nez have reconsidered there plans for Bridgewater Place.

Great cities offer quality and diversity – these qualities already exist in Leeds at the Corn Exchange. Either leave the Corn Exchange as it is or enhance and improve the building with its existing eclectic mix.

Dave West, Bradford

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I have been trading at the Corn Exchange craft fair now for the past 5 years selling handmade jewellery.

JADE JEWELLERY

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I am horrified at this announcement today. Leeds is a great city, a city for individualists and nowhere is more individual than the eclectic mix of shops and stalls in the Corn Exchange. Where can small companies now promote and sell their products? Where can the shopper now go in Leeds to buy that special gift and be assured that they will find that special something?

Fiona F,Leeds

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I am currently a tenant of one of the shops in the corn exchange and owner of one of the alternative shops. I have read your article and would like to make some comments. Firstly the claim by the landlords that they are looking at accommodating the current remaining tenants is not correct – we have not been offered any such option; it was made very clear to us today that we are out.

Tenant

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why do we need anymore restauraunt? weve got hundreds, and how many more grin's and culture vultures do we have in leeds? NONE.

So why do they always have to shut down all the decent shops and make them into common restaurants when theres loads already.

corn xchange has been around for yonks and everyone i know goes there practically every weekend and it has the only decent shops in there so why would anyone want to shut it down?

Yes it was meant to be a food place to start with but things change, and theres a cafe thing in there anyway, like we actually need anymore restaurants! and aslo who cares about 'Kitchen utensils' tell them to get to homebase or some other place.. anyway as you can see i think its a dumb idea and im sure everyone agrees so DONT SHUT IT DOWN!!!!!!!!!!!!!

PROUD CORN XCHANGE SHOPPER!

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I am appalled at how traders have been treated. I shop regularly at Blonde & Wise and I was shocked to see in which conditions they were working- among scaffolding and bitterly cold drafts. They, as the rest of the traders, kept a smile on their faces and continue working in a very professional way. It is a pity that their positive attitude has been rewarded with such a disdain and lack of thought. It is plainly obvious that Christmas is a key time for these traders, as in most cases the Corn Exchange trade is their main or only income. I hope that the owners can show some of this season good will and allow the traders to complete the Christmas campaign. Leeds shoppers and potential future customers will appreciate.

Irina Arcas

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I can accept that things have to change over time, and so with Zurich wanting to change the product base of shops in the corn exchange is their call and I'm sure it will be a big success with locals and tourists.

However, what I have a problem with is the brutal way they have treated their loyal traders over the last year. I've been shocked at the treatment of their staff and shop owners and today they have ruined my Christmas trading too. We have been selling our 'Pleb' T-shirts at the corn exchange for 3 years now on the craft stalls. Today we got a call from the blue telling us not to come back, even though we were told we would have up to Christmas (they even got their nice security guard to do their dirty work for them).

With only five weeks to Christmas it should be our peak trading time, and we have customers like other stall holders who expect us to be there, so many people will be disapointed by this decision. It's too late for us to get in at another craft fair (in another city- as there is nowhere else for local craft traders within Leeds).

We have made lots of extra stock for Christmas, and as with many of the other craft stall holders the corn exchange is our main source of income. Could they not have given us this last month? Scrooges!

So Christmas is ruined for us, I hope Zurich's turkeys get burnt on Christmas day!

Lucy S

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As one of the stall holders that has just been told that I have no more income for Christmas, I am just flabbergasted that a large company have no regard whatsoever for the businesses that it has ruined. You are telling me the corn exchange will be up and running with all the new businesses for Christmas- I don't think so. Could they not have waited till after christmas, telling everyone that from january 1st they'll be no more craft markets? At least then we can make new arrangements. We all put up with a hell of a lot while the corn exchange was being done up, whist being told that we'll still be able to trade at Christmas. So now we are five weeks from Christmas, the busiest time of the year and we are told thanks, but thats it. We are all out of time now to be able to find anywhere else to trade in such short notice. If they had told us before the work had started then we all could have made new arrangements, but then they couldn't have taken our money could they!

Tell me also where else in Leeds you can find small independent shops? Leeds is starting to become one of the major shopping cities in England but if you don't have any independent shops what makes it any different from any other city. I'll tell you "nothing". GAP, H&M, M&S these are in every city in England the independents make the difference and now Leeds has just lost the edge. My advise- go to Manchester, Sheffield or Newcastle and find something different!

Greg Shaw

www.thepleb.com

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I think this is outrageous. This is peoples livelihoods we're talking about here. It's unfair for them to just cast them aside in the name of cool eateries. Aside form this, the Corn Exchange is a Leeds landmark - both in it's physical form and it's retail form. There are many stalls/shops in there which are unique to Leeds and taking these away from the centre will definitely be a loss to the less mainstream areas of retail in Leeds.

There are already many places to eat in Leeds - catering for pretty much everyone and every food group you could think of. Surely there's no need for an emporium of food of all things?

A lot of people will be disheartened by Zurich Assurance's decision on the development of the Corn Exchange. It will be a loss to the centre - even if Zurich Assurance think differently. The way Zurich Assurance has treated the stall holders in the Corn Exchange is terrible. False promises and increased pressure on them to move out is atrocious.

I can see what they're trying to do in restoring some heritage back to the building, but it doesn't need it. What they've failed to see is the community in the Corn Exchange and the alternative products that people can't get anywhere else in Leeds.

It's a great loss to the city and I personally will be sad to see it go.

Neil Roebuck

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its ridiculous!

leeds is already full of restaraunts

and places to eat out

it's really not needed

there are so many unique

and inderpendant shops inside

and so many people hang out there

its really stupid!

lets protest!

****

For the past 17 years, the corn exchange has been offering a unique range of goods not available anywhere else locally. We travel 20 miles to shop in Leeds and the corn exchange is always first on our list of places to shop in. Leeds does not need more upmarket restaurants and shops of this nature as it already has enough of those, but it doesn't have enough diversity of the nature to be found in the corn exchange at this current time. What effect will changing the corn exchange have on the indoor market??Which already sells every type of food you could possibly want and probably at cheaper prices than the "revitalised" Corn Exchange will sell! Rather than enhancing the corn exchange it will spoil it for a lot of shoppers that travel a long way for the goods that the corn exchange offers. Where will the current traders go?? Because we will go with them and hence boycott the new "revitalised" Corn Exchange! I HOPE THE PLAN FALLS FLAT ON ITS FACE!

****

They are destroying a vital part of the community.

Okay, so a lot of people feel intimidated by the 'moshers, Goths, emos punks' whatever name you want to put on us. But that isn't the point. Those shops and the corn exchange itself is a big part of a lot of people's lives. It gives us something to do on a weekend, a place to meet our friends, a place to enjoy seeing a lot of people.

Okay….so it might make Leeds look better to those 'upper class' people…but you can't expect this to go down without any protest.

****

I have lived in Leeds for over 30 years and have always thought the Corn Exchange was at the heart of Leeds as a vibrant city and a factor in attracting major tourism.

When the conversion was made enabling it to function as a vital centre for small and creative retail units, it became a shopping centre appealing to discerning and youthful customers and a welcome change from the standard department store. It even gave its name to that area which became informally known as the Exchange Quarter and became a "happening" area day and night.

I am hugely disappointed at the news of what is intended for the Corn Exchange and the insensitive way in which traders have been informed.

Who needs an over-priced "gourmands paradise" and yet another restaurant? Leeds already has an excellent market, regular Farmers' Markets both centrally and in outlying areas such as Headingley and Chapel Allerton.

Let the Corn Exchange traders continue to do what they do best. There is certainly room for more events - music, fashion, visual art exhibitions, etc. to complement the way the building is used already.

However, don't change its function in such a drastic fashion and destroy a facility that people use and enjoy.

David Hatfield

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i think it is awful tht they are closing the shops in corn x .

is is the council's plan to stop us hanging out round there?

the people running the shops are being treated unfairly.

from daniel payne

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We are Blonde and Wise and have been successfully trading in the Corn Exchange for the past 3 years and are devastated by the news of the eviction of traders. We feel that we bring unique hand crafted clothing and handbags to Leeds that cannot be found anywhere else. Not only will we loose a fantastic outlet to sell but local shoppers and tourists will loose a fantastic shopping experience. Now we are campaigning as we feel we have been evicted too near to Christmas, the Christmas craft market is an enjoyable experience visited by thousands from across Yorkshire. We would have at least liked the opportunity to trade up until Christmas.

****

It is all part of the Capitalist onslaught together with the "Refurbishment" of the Market.

T L

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Hi, I have just found out that small independent traders in Leeds Corn Exchange has been evicted as from today without any notice. My daughter is affected by this decision. With a friend she trades as Blonde and Wise designing, manufacturing and retailing women's clothing.

I am saddened that for all its efforts to be different Leeds will now lose an outlet thus denying 'local independent Leeds people' an opportunity to trade goods made and produced locally....

Blonde and Wise website is http://www.blonde-and-wise.co.uk/ if you wish to see their products

What will they and others like them do, especially in the run up to Christmas?

Yours

Mike Short

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I think it's stupid. I have been living in Leeds since 1986 and the Corn Exchange has been a symbol of Leeds Heritage. They sell some nice things in there and it's not fair they have been given notice and what seems like a cold way.

There are loads of cafes, restaurants, clubs & bars around Leeds. We don't need any more.

Leave it alone to stay as it is.

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I am a 15-year-old secondary school student, writing to you in complete disgust regarding the proposed changes to the Leeds Corn Exchange.

As a young person of the city of Leeds, and extremely often visitor to the Corn Exchange, I was appalled to hear from my friends what is due to happen to the building.

This building has been a focal point of my social life and self-confidence for well over a year now; as I am one of the people who you could say "Fit in well" in the environment of the "Corn Ex" as it has come to be known to many of the younger generation.

But it is not merely the aspect of a social gathering point that enrages me about the so-called "refurbishments" of the building. This shopping area is extremely popular with me and my friends, and many others who I know of, some who live almost twenty miles away from the city. The Corn Exchange has many alternative clothing shops, merchandise shops, jewellery and even shoe shops. This is one of very few places in Leeds that sells such alternative clothing, and I believe that with the work that is due to be done, a lot of public interest, tourism and profit will be lost. I have seen many different types and ages of people visiting the Corn Exchange, but none more so than the teenage generation visiting the Corn Exchange for the sole purpose of purchasing such alternative clothing. There are also some older people interested in what the place has to offer, but I am positive that the financial income will plummet shortly after these stores have been removed.

When considering these changes, one has to wonder: why does Leeds need a food emporium? There is a plethora of food outlets dotted all around the city centre, from restaurants to quaint coffee shops, but nonetheless Leeds does not need another place for food to be sold to the general public. Some might argue that there are no food outlets near to the Corn Exchange - which may be initially true: there are no restaurants in direct range of the Corn Ex. However, after months of trawling the different routes of getting to the Corn Ex, from all different angles, I have seen many smaller food shops, such as Greggs, Ainsleys, Subway and McDonalds. There is also a large amount of restuarants in the area of the Corn Exchange/The Calls all of which my parents find high class and worth visiting. there is also The Light, a mere ten minute walk away, with a well-renowned food court with high class restaurants such as Nando's and Brown's.

A final point that I would like to make is this: Where are all the rock-lovers supposed to go? The Corn Exchange is an almost hallowed meet and hang-out place for Emos, Moshers, Punks and Goths alike. I say this from a purely unbiased view; I have friends from both ends of the social spectrum. However, some may say this from a positive or negative viewpoint. Some rock lovers will have nowhere left to shop or meet with friends. Some rock haters will be annoyed by the fact that "All the moshers and stupid f*****g goths will be all over OUR shops" (a quote from an..acquaintance of mine after overhearing a conversation about this subject at school today). This could have seriously negative effects on the amount of violence and verbal abuse on the streets. Also, the Corn Exchange offers a kind of...haven for all rock lovers to meet, socialise and shop without prejudice or negativity from other stereotypes.

These are only my views. I hope that someone feels the same way about losing our beloved Corn Exchange. I believe we should start a petition, or at least a peaceful protest, as everyone I have spoken to who visits the Corn Exchange (and also some who don't visit there, such as radio DJs that I heard discussing this on their radio station this morning) are up in arms about the changes. I have only managed to find a small handful of people who have been either indifferent or slightly pleased by the changes. One of the people who was outraged was my form tutor; a middle aged woman who has no interest in rock music at all. If this does not show the diversity of the public visiting the Corn Exchange, then nothing can!!

Thank you for listening. People, please state your views in the best way possible; be mature, polite but most importantly direct to the point. Help us save our Corn Exchange!!

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Think it sounds like a fantastic idea.

The Corn Exchange is an amazing building. A food emporium would give it the focus it deserves.

Cate Perman

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Leeds already has enough food places! The Corn Exchange is the heart and soul of Leeds for most of it's younger people and the people who visit Leeds, I my self mostly go for The Corn Exchange! and friendly environment that it gives off and also the closeness of all those that go!

Katie Jowett, 17.

Castleford

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I have shopped at the corn exchange since I was 14 years old! It has always been my favourite place to shop and the only place I can find half of the stuff I like to get! It has been there for many many years and I think it ruins the history if it is changed into a food court! There is already a cafe on the bottom floor and there is nothing wrong with that, It was great! Why make the entire thing a food place!? Please save the corn exchange! Everyone I know is against the whole thing and we will be so mad and upset if they do this!

THE CORN EXCHANGE MUST STAY!

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the corn exchange is a great place to meet up in leeds, its most of my friends FAVORITE place to be in leeds! Loads of youths and older people LOVE the corn exchnage it should NOT be closed down it a brilliant small shopping centre containing many great shops that i havn't been able to find anywhere other than the corn exchange!

Plus, why do we need more food in leeds? on almost every corner you go round you can find a food shop rather easily! Are you trying to turn us all into fattys??!

Hannah

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I REMEMBER SOME 20 OR MORE YEARS AGO, BEFORE HARVEY NICHOLS, KAREN MILLAN AND THE REST.

THE CORN EXCHANGE WAS THE FIRST RETAIL DEVELOPMENT IN LEEDS THAT AIMED TO LEAD TRENDS IN LEEDS. IT WAS HERALDED AS THE NEW ERA FOR LEEDS, IT ENCOURAGED UNIQUNESS, IT LOVED DIFFERENCE, AND IT PLAYED ON INDIVIDUALITY.

ON THIS WAS BUILT A REPUTATION. LEEDS CITY COUCIL HAVE MARKETED THIS AREA FOR YEARS AS A TOURIST ATTRACTION, A HIVE OF ACTIVITY, AND AN ARTISTIC DEVELOPMENT.

HAVE YOU ALL FORGOTTEN THE RED OR DEAD STORE, THE FIRST ONE OUTSIDE LONDON........I SHOPPED THERE AS DID MANY INDIVIDUALS FROM OUTSIDE AND INSIDE LEEDS, IT BROUGHT SHOPPERS AND MORE COMMERCIAL OUTLETS IN.

ZURICH AND LEEDS CITY COUNCIL SEEM TO HAVE FORGOTTEN THIS. INSTEAD OF PUTTING THEIR NAME SILENTLY TO A 'INTERNATIONAL FOOD COURT' WHY NOT HAVE IT SAT COMFORTABLY NEXT TO YOUTH AND FUTURE AND GROUND BREAKING MOVEMENT. WHY NOT BE PROUD OF THE HERITAGE, NOT JUST ANCIENT BUT RECENT.

I SHOPPED AT RED OR DEAD, MY DAUGHTERS SHOP AT GRIN, (MINI GRIN WE MISS YOU !!) , EXIT AND THE UNIQUE CLOTHES SHOPS YOU HAVE FORCED INTO CLOSURE.

IF LEEDS WANTS TO BE A FORCE OF THE FUTURE IN FASHION, MUSIC AND CULTURE THEN IT NEEDS TO RECOGNISE THE FORCE OF THE PAST, THE COUNCIL NEEDS TO REALISE THAT TO BE A MECCA OF FASHION, AND CULTURE YOU NEED TO DEVELOP, BE BRAVE AND MOST OF ALL VALUE INDIVIDUALITY

I WAS UNLUCKY ENOUGH TO VISIT MEADOWHALL IN SHEFFIELD THE OTHER DAY. THEY HAVE BOTH AN INTERNATIONAL FOOD COURT AND A ' UNIQUE SHOPPING AREA' CALLED THE LANES ( TRUST ME BHS WOULD HAVE BEEN PROUD). THIS IS DUPLICATION.

MY YOUNGEST DAUGHTER LOTTIE SAID TO HER SISTER .DAISY........... INNOVATE DON'T DUPLICATE .....

PLEASE SAVE THE CORN EXCHANGE AS A SHOPPING, MARKETING AND FASHION DEVELOPMENT AREA FOR LEEDS

Becky Marriner

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I think it is pothetic that it is getting turned into a food emporium this is going to effect more then just the kids that stand outside. i used to stand outside there and it was a lot of fun it was somewhere to go where you felt wanted and it wasnt any further than 5 mins away from everything you needed. Leeds is know'n for its music scene which is attacted by the corn exchange. So its effecting the city in more ways then one. Somone said that leeds moves on and tries new things but why a food emporium people say that people are getting over weight so why build my food places. People are still going to stand outside it anyway so whats the point in trying to change that. Its affecting buisnesses because they have no where to go either. Who ever has done this has realy messed them selves up now leeds is going to be overweight aswell so now you have just made leeds boaring well done who ever did that.

adam 15 leeds

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I have long thought the corn Exchange was going to be closed down. I believe the recent, long drawn out, repairs to the Corn X were deigned to 'soften up' the existing shopkeepers in order to make it somewhat easier to remove them. As for ths suggestion of an upmarket food emporium, I beleive this is nothing more than smoke and mirrors for a food hall which will consist of the likes of McDonalds, Burger King, KFC, Pizza Hut etc. Really, would an upmarket food emporium on that scale work in Leeds? I doubt it as there are so many small eating places anyway struggling to make a profit. Come on Zurich, don't take us for fools!

Simon Church

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I think its disgusting that stall holders are being kicked out. A lot of people i know love shopping there because of all the different things you can buy and the fact that some of the stalls have clothes that are one offs made by the stall holders.

Grin is a store i love and have recently started to shop there a lot with my friends. I was supposed to be getting a corset from a stall at corn exchange for a fancy dress at work but was told i could no longer do that as the stall was closed i had to run around Leeds for hours trying to find another place that sold them

I think the owners should let the stall holders keep the stalls as Leeds has enough places for people to eat and not enough places that are as original as that.

Lisa

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Yet another nail in the coffin of Leeds's cool reputation. I'm now 21 and from as far back as I care to remember the Corn Exchange has been one of Leeds's coolest and most recognisable attractions/hang-outs. In an area of the city centre already full of trendy caf's and eateries, mainstream fashion boutiques and expensive bars the Corn Exchange is a much needed breath of fresh air. Exhibiting some of the cities most unusual small businesses, boutiques and art stalls the Corn Exchange is undoubtedly one of the best showcases for the cities diverse range of alternative culture. The Exchange blends many elements of the city which otherwise would not get the chance to be seen by the general public and visitors to the area.

Much like Granary Wharf, changing the Corn Exchange would ruin its aesthetic, its charm and the whole scene/vibe based around it. In my opinion the Corn Exchange is the epicentre of Leeds's cool indie culture and alternative scene, a scene which the city should be striving to hold on to not attempting to replace. Anyone trying to close it down is clearly an idiot!

Josh, Pudsey

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I think this is a very unfair plan to come up with. I only go into Leeds city centre to go to the Corn Exchange. I buy all my

Clothes from the corn exchange peoples gifts etc. It's the best place to shop in Leeds. And its also a great hang out spot for teenagers who like that unusual style and music. Its also a very big attraction in Leeds. But it has an image of young people and its unusual look and your gunna take all that away just like that?. And what do plan to do with all the shop owners are you gunna give them some where else in Leeds to go?. Lots of people will be against this idea I am 1 of them there will be plenty more who feel the same as I do so DON'T CLOSE THE CORN EXCHANGE!!!.

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