How Leeds Corn Exchange could look by the end of 2020

Leeds City Council have revealed how the Corn Exchange could look by the end of this year, following senior politicians’ decision to give the green light to a multi-million pound scheme around the historic building.
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Work on £21.5m construction plans to transform the surrounding areas is set to start this summer as part of a wider £270m scheme to help improve transport in the city.

A statement from the council claims the area surrounding the Corn Exchange ‘no longer meets the transport and economic ambitions of the city’, adding it is congested and buses are regularly delayed.

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Work on phase one is set to start in June, on Call Lane, New Market Street, Kirkgate, Lower Briggate Duncan Street and parts of Vicar Lane and Boar Lane.

An artist's impression of the Corn Exchange at the end of 2020.An artist's impression of the Corn Exchange at the end of 2020.
An artist's impression of the Corn Exchange at the end of 2020.

The work is set to include widening pavements, introducing more greenery and improved public realm.

The second phase will focus on Meadow Lane, re-prioritising it from a four-lane highway, into a mainly two-lane road with cycle ways and walking routes connecting the city via the planned city park.

Priority will be provided for pedestrians and cyclists in a bid to encourage a shift from private cars to walking, cycling and public transport use.

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The expected completion date for all of the work is by winter 2020.

Leeds City Council’s executive member for climate change, transport and sustainable development, Councillor Lisa Mulherin, said: “I am delighted this transformational scheme has now got the green light.

“The enhancements will place the iconic buildings of the Corn Exchange and Kirkgate Market in a more appropriate setting. The bus priority measures and improved walking and cycling routes will improve connectivity services and air quality in the city.

“Like all major schemes, there will be disruption, however Leeds City Council will work closely with the bus companies, other transport providers and business to keep this to a minimum and will work hard to keep the public informed of changes which affect them.

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“We’re currently working on unprecedented investment and change to transform the city centre into a more liveable, better connected and more active environment with better air quality for those who live, work and play in it. Whist we work to minimise any inconvenience this work will cause, however we anticipate the long term benefits will be worth the disruption whilst this change takes place.”​

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