A tiny Leeds suburb ranked 'coolest in the UK' looks set for some big changes as council bosses begin to take opinions from local residents, businesses and others regarding plans to regenerate the area.
Described by Conde Nast Traveller as an "under-the-radar zone with art at its core," the under-the-radar suburb was listed by the renowned magazine in a list of the coolest neighbourhoods in the UK last year.
It was listed alongside areas such as Ancoats in Manchester, Aigburth in Liverpool and Sharrow Vale in Sheffield - with the magazine noting that the area is "defined by its try-anything attitude" and "interesting mix of people".
Now, it appears the tiny Leeds suburb is set for some big changes as Leeds Council starts surveying residents, local businesses and landowners in preparation for the creation of a new regeneration framework for the area that will be used going forward.
“The growth we see – not just in Mabgate but across the entire city – has to be inclusive and compassionate, delivering enhanced access to jobs, training and education for all local people," said Councillor Helen Hayden, Leeds City Council’s executive member for infrastructure and climate.
“As we look ahead to a bright future for the area, we want to gather as many thoughts and ideas as possible to ensure Mabgate is a place where people get the opportunities and support they need to make the most of their talents, skills and potential.”
The idea behind the new framework is to make sure that growth is inclusive, can better connect people to jobs and training, and that in general, it is a people-first regeneration strategy.
The new framework will also support the East Street Arts-led neighbourhood plan for Mabgate, Lincoln Green and Burmantofts, which has been in the pipeline since 2017.
To set out the community's vision for the area, the neighbourhood plan will work alongside the Mabgate framework.
“Mabgate is a vibrant, fascinating community with a can-do spirit that embodies some of the finest qualities of the city of Leeds as a whole," said Councillor Jonathan Pryor, Leeds City Council’s executive member for economy, culture and education.
"As the city centre grows, we want to make sure the area’s independent arts scene continues to thrive for many, many years to come. That is why we are in the process of planning this new regeneration framework, which will play a vital role in shaping a Mabgate that showcases the very best of our creative industries.”
Reverend and the Makers frontman Jon McClure has officially been confirmed as the new chairman of the oldest football team in the world, Sheffield FC.
He might be a die-hard Wednesday fan, but given the turbulence his lifelong club have been through over the past couple of years, maybe this is the start of a new love affair.
Sheffield FC had teased that important news was coming soon earlier this month, simply writing on socials: "Not long until we can tell all. We’ve been sitting on something big."
As it turns out, the news is that one of the Steel City's most famous and beloved sons is now part of the club's new ownership structure. McClure quickly took to social media to help join in with the announcement as well.
The veteran indie frontman and Day Fever co-founder has continued to branch out from solely music-related ventures, having gone into business not only with multiple names for the smash hit afternoon-into-early evening music festival, but also joining forces with a fellow Sheffielder.
Since November of last year, Jon's has often appeared alongside his brother Chris, who plays the comedy character of 'Steve Bracknall' on the Game's Gone podcast.
A bit like Yorkshire's answer to Alan Partridge, there remains a sporting throughline in pretty much all of the 44-year-old's career at the moment - now so more than ever.
Speaking online, McClure said: "What am I doing at the world’s oldest football club, you ask? Well, meet the new chairman of Sheffield FC.
"Our vision is that we honour the club’s roots and pay homage to its incredible history, whilst restoring it to its former glory." He's already been making his presence known around their home ground.
— Sheffield Football Club (@sheffieldfc) March 3, 2026
While some are still looking for updates on the plans to bring the historic outfit back closer to Sheffield proper - the non-league club currently playing at The Home of Football Stadium in Dronfield, Derbyshire - this fresh start for the now oft-neglected native minnows has still sparked some excitement.
At present, 'The Ancients' are in the process of developing a new 5,000-seater arena at the old Sheffield Transport Sports Club site in Meadowhead, which was initially slated to open this year.
But as for the musician, he went on to add that "There’s a lot to be done, but we’re ready to get stuck in and give Sheffield FC the love it deserves"; McClure and co. have dubbed this "a new chapter" for "the first in the world", and the update will no doubt bring some fresh hope to the organisation.
What do you make of the announcement, and is a local figure like Reverend and the Makers' Jon McClure the right person to help take over this community cornerstone and national institution?
Featured Images — Sheffield FC/Reverend and the Makers
News
Independent Nordic-inspired homeware shop closes Leeds store after six years
Clementine Hall
After six years in the city, independent homeware retailer North Home is closing its Leeds city centre shop.
If you're a lover of all things home then you'll have most likely visited the gorgeous North Home shop in the Victoria Quarter.
Stacked to the brim with unique pieces from striking ceramics to stylish soft furnishings, North Home is known for its well-curated stock and great customer service.
Seriously, we've probably spent a good hour in here in awe of all the beautiful pieces.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Last week, curious shoppers noticed the three-storey store was suddenly empty and now the company have confirmed that they have closed for good.
In a statement, they said: "After nearly 6 wonderful years trading in Leeds, we’ve made the difficult decision to close our physical store while we restructure the business and explore the next chapter for North Home.
"Retail has changed significantly in recent years and, like many independent businesses, we’ve faced increasing costs.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
"Taking this step now gives us the opportunity to protect what we’ve built and focus on the future of the brand. North Home continues to operate online and all existing customer orders will be fulfilled as normal although delivery times may be slightly extended.
"We’ve loved being part of the Leeds retail community since 2020 and are incredibly grateful for the support we’ve received. We hope to share more about our plans soon."
We'll be sad to see them go and we hope this isn't goodbye forever, but you can still shop from North Home online here.
Georgina Pellant -
11th August 2021 
