This is how the new entrance of Leeds Kirkgate Market will look

Designs published on Leeds City Council’s website appear to show a bright green, blue, red, orange and yellow pattern adorning the entrance off New York Street.

A report by council officers claims the design would create an ‘optical illusion’, giving a tunnel-like effect for the entrance.

The document goes on to recommend the plans for approval, adding the multicoloured design ‘has resonance’ with the surrounding Victorian architecture.

It stated: “The artwork itself is an optical illusion creating what appears to be a three dimensional tunnel effect yet being applied to a two dimensional surface.

“It is considered that this effect will help accentuate and animate the entrance to the market without offering an impact outside of the immediate locality of the entrance, with the artwork only revealing itself on direct approaches

to the entrance or via a sideways glance moving eastwards on New York Street.

“As noted by the conservation officer, the polychromatic geometrical design has a resonance with the late Victorian architecture which is the predominant character of this part of the city centre conservation area and is considered to be an enhancement of the conservation area setting.”

According to the plans, the art work would be painted flat on the surface of the building and create the illusion of a 3D effect, creating a ‘multi-coloured 3D geometric tunnel’.

A supporting statement submitted with the plans claimed award winning artist Rob Lee was commissioned to develop a ‘bold and eye-catching’ work.

It added: “This location was identified by the Markets team as it is currently unattractive and not an inviting entrance to the market building. It is one of the busiest entrances to the market especially during the Leeds Night Light event.

“Rob proposes that the paint will be of highest quality and robust for outdoor conditions.”

The installation of the art work is also expected to be filmed and made into a short 30 second film to use on social media to help promote the art work as well as the market entrance.