The three topics that can make Leeds best city in UK

Speaking at the annual dinner of the Leeds, York and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, Nigel Foster said the last 12 months have been transformational for Leeds. He told the audience: “If 2013 was the start of a renaissance... then I believe 2014 will be a year when the city reinforces its increasing importance in the UK economy.”

Mr Foster welcomed the opening of Trinity Leeds and the First Direct Arena, further investment in the office market, £50m in funding for medical and biological engineering at Leeds University and its new vice chancellor, Sir Alan Langlands, a former chief executive of the NHS.

But in spite of the advances made in Leeds, he said the UK still faces significant challenges to ensure that economic growth is more balanced across the country and creates opportunities for all parts of society and a more sustainable economy.

Mr Foster, a former director at engineering consultancy Arup, said the chamber has identified three big topics where businesses can support the aspiration for Leeds to be the best city in the UK.

He said the south bank area presents an opportunity to expand the city centre, create space for new sectors to grow and accommodate new housing, a park and the planned HS2 station.

Mr Foster urged businesses to support the efforts of the council and the local enterprise partnership to secure greater devolved powers through the Government’s City Deal programme.

He called on businesses to work with educational establishments to create apprenticeships and jobs for young people.

Looking ahead to next year, Mr Foster said that Government must continue to promote pro-business policies and avoid short-term interventions just to satisfy voters in the general election. Consistent economic policies and confidence are vital for investment and job creation, he added.

Adam Beaumont, the founder and managing director of Aql, was the guest speaker at last night’s event, held at The Queens hotel and attended by 400 people.

He told the audience how his telecommunications company formed an internet exchange in Leeds and said this puts the city in a prime position as the main disaster recovery hub for the UK financial services sector.

Mr Beaumont also encouraged SMEs to take advantage of the new Leeds Connection Voucher Scheme which will allow them to apply for grants of up to £3,000 towards to superfast broadband connections.

His company made headlines when it launched free wifi in the city centre via 24 eye-catching blue telephone boxes.

The president covered the immediate future of the membership organisation – the Leeds York and North Yorkshire Chamber is due to merge with Bradford Chamber on February 10.

Mr Foster said the merger will strengthen the ability to represent members’ interests.

The two chambers announced the proposed tie-up in November and put on a united front to promote the benefits of a tie-up to members, although Leeds, York and North Yorkshire’s most recent annual accounts reported difficult trading.