Retailers urged to have a say on the forum

David Laycock, chairman of the Leeds Retail Association (LRA), said he is taking the organisation to the next level by extending membership to businesses across the city. LRA currently consists of a board but leaflets are being distributed to retailers, hotels, cafes, bars, restaurants and theatres, inviting them to become members.

Mr Laycock said the new venture, which was set up following consultation with Leeds City Council and Leeds and Partners, would be a step towards making a bid to create a Business Improvement District in Leeds.

“This will be an organisation which will bring together all the key stakeholders and customer-facing businesses in Leeds to collect information and debate the key issues,” he said.

“The retail sector is a central part of the city’s economy and we want to make a difference and create a platform to unite everyone with one voice.”

Mr Laycock recently left his role as centre director for Trinity Leeds and was replaced earlier this month by Kevin Duffy, former centre director at Cabot Circus in Bristol.

He is now focusing on LRA’s new venture, which will work closely with the council’s Economic Development Strategy and within the City Proposition with Leeds and Partners.

The expansion comes at a time when the city is preparing itself for new investment, including the Victoria Gate retail scheme, anchored by John Lewis.

“Why should it be better on Bond Street than it is on Briggate? I have never understood that,” said Mr Laycock.

“Building on the strong progress made I intend to lead and unite the retail sector working in close partnership with city stakeholders.”