Jobs boost for Leeds as refurbished media centre provides space for budding entrepreneurs

Internal and external works on the building in Chapeltown started last autumn to install a new roof and windows, and remodel two floors to create 12 business units, together with a business hub.

The £1.8m scheme, which was delivered by Unity Enterprise – a not-for-profit subsidiary of housing association Unity Homes and Enterprise – in partnership with Leeds City Council, was part-financed by the European Regional Development Fund. Leeds Media Centre is owned by the council and managed by Unity Enterprise on a long-term lease.

Coun Lewis said: “I really look forward to hearing about the success and growth of the project in the years ahead.”

Ms Jandu added: “I’ve seen how tirelessly my Unity colleagues have worked to pull this together.

“I lived in Chapeltown for eight years. This centre is exactly what we need; really creating those business opportunities and helping local communities."

Cedric Boston, Unity Homes and Enterprise chief executive, said: “So many people spend their whole lives without being able to showcase their talent and what they can offer. This project, in a small way, is trying to offer people an opportunity to showcase their talent to the world.”