Growth plan gets backing

Members of the authority’s executive board agreed to adopt the Leeds Inclusive Growth strategy, which contains 12 “big ideas” on how to make sure everyone benefits from the city’s economic prosperity.

Plans include doubling the size of the city centre, tackling low pay and revamping transport, schools and housing.

A report which went before councillors said: “There is a need to do more on inclusive growth to ensure everyone in the city contributes to and benefits from the economy to their full potential.

“There is a need to do more to tackle poverty. Low pay and low productivity are big issues both nationally and in Leeds, and the strategy recognises the importance that low wage sectors have in our economy.”

The report received enthusiastic cross-party support at the meeting, with Andrew Carter, the leader of the council’s Conservative group, describing it as “a real step forward”.

Council chief executive Tom Riordan added: “Children are right at the heart of this and are not peripheral. We know in a city like Leeds retail is crucial, not just for jobs but for how a place actually works.

“The recognition of the federal economy is important, and if you look at the scale of the development, there is a real positive agenda to that. I do think technology is also fundamental to a city over how we can utilise a diverse tech sector in Leeds and help companies get to the level they need to be.”