Suburban neighbourhoods miss shopping opportunities

Leeds Council commissioned Colliers International to provide a picture of current and future capacity for retailing.

Their report says that the role of Leeds city centre in the regional shopping hierarchy is not at risk and its status as the major centre in employment terms is secure.

However, they did say that several neighbourhoods had missed out on the chance of attracting relatively large stores.

The consultants say the council should investigate opportunities for new stores or shopping facilities off Dewsbury Road and at Chapel Allerton, Headingley, Cross Gates and Farsley.

They also say scope exists to revitalise “large, outdated” foodstores at Holt Park and Horsforth which should be discussed with relevant retailers.

On Horsforth, the report says: “Horsforth was once a freestanding town centre with a range of shops and service uses.

“It contains a Morrisons superstore, albeit in a relatively out dated and limited store fabric, but clearly from the household survey plays an important function in the community... there may be scope for redevelopment within the centre, but this would be brought forward by a commercial developer.”

On Cross Gates, the report says the centre lacks a major supermarket. The report also recommends the expansion – in commercial terms and expenditure – of Farsley centre.

Members of the development plan panel will discuss the report next Tuesday.