But work has been continuing on transforming the city centre. Leeds City Council's ambitious Connecting Leeds programme is aiming to create a city where people could get around by walking, cycling or using public transport for the most part, reducing people's reliance on private cars. That means big changes around the Headrow, the area around the Corn Exchange and on the Regent Street Flyover (thought this is for motor traffic). And private developments which are changing the city's skyline are continuing at pace. Here are the big changes you'll notice when you head back into Leeds city centre. All photos by Tony Johnson.
1. The Headrow
The Headrow is getting wider pavements, more trees, bus priority measures, safer cycleways and better crossings.
2. Regent Street flyover
Construction started in summer last year to rebuild the Regent Street flyover, which carries traffic over the A61 Regent Street, after it reached the end of its usable life. The £31m scheme is set to be complete by spring 2022.
3. Call Lane
Call Lane is being closed to through traffic as part of a wider scheme to transform the area around the Corn Exchange. The area will have safer cycle ways, wider pavements, bus and pedestrian priority and more greenery.
4. Vicar Lane
Vicar Lane is now open to buses travelling both ways for first time in over 50 years, improving journeys and traffic circulation in Leeds city centre.
5. Lower Briggate
Lower Briggate is getting a new cycle lane as part of the Corn Exchange scheme.
6. Cookridge Street
Cookridge Street is being closed to traffic and being transformed into a new public space as part of a £1.7m scheme.