The ongoing construction work on Central Road may have claimed another Leeds independent, as Brownhill & Co announces its 'likely' closure.
The news comes just weeks after the beloved Mrs Atha's shut for good, citing the 'two year desecration' of Central Road while Store House opposite (formerly House of Fraser) is redeveloped into a brand new student accommodation.
Family-run bar Brownhill & Co has now said it's faced 'complete radio silence' from its landlords, plus 'thoughtless upheaval' in Leeds city centre, and will 'very likely close' on Monday 6 May.
They said: "We are deeply saddened that our little family business will cease to exist after 10 years of very hard work."
Brownhill & Co added: "It’s been a big ten years & we’ve achieved a hell of a lot, we’re eternally thankful for the support of our incredible customers - many of whom have become great friends.
"We’d also like to convey deep regret to any businesses left out of pocket as a result of our closure, this is something we’ve worked desperately hard on to try and avoid over the last 9-12 months while faced with frankly impossible hurdles. We will continue to strive to find solutions where we can."
In response to Brownhill & Co's lengthy statement - which you can read in full HERE - a Leeds City Council spokesperson said: "We are sorry to hear of Brownhill & Co’s decision to close.
Leeds bar Brownhill & Co says it will close due to 'upheaval' construction work on Central Road. Credit: The Hoot Leeds
"The demolition and rebuild of the former House of Fraser building is not a council project and we understand that it is nearing completion, with the student residential element ready for September 2025. However we always endeavour to work with any businesses affected by construction work and offer whatever support we can.
"In this case, since this construction project began, we have been in constant dialogue with businesses on Central Road and the developers, setting up and attending stakeholder meetings to discuss how we could help over the life of the project.
"We do recognise the impact of construction work on local businesses, and we are committed to helping mitigate this wherever and however we can. Business Rates discounts for Retail, Hospitality and Leisure businesses are set nationally by Government."
One of the city's best independents is expanding into a bigger premises.
Shokupan on Wellington Street is a proper little gem that food-lovers across Leeds will rave nonstop about if given the opportunity.
Husband and wife team Alan and Alison took inspiration from trips around the world to bring a taste of Japan to the city and over the past few years it's gained a loyal following.
They're famed for their delicious Japanese sandos made with pillow-like fluffy shokupan bread, stuffed with everything from crunchy chicken katsu and flavourful pork to fresh strawberries and whipped cream.
But it's not all just about sandwiches, they also serve rice bowls and katsu curries as well as small bites such as chicken karaage and octopus balls.
Their food is so bloody good, that they've had to find a better location and this time it's slap bang in the city centre on Central Road.
And they're joining brilliant company too, with the likes of House of Koko and Vinyl Grounds as neighbours.
Announcing the very exciting news to Instagram, Shokupan said: "You guessed right…we are moving to Central Road, LS1 6DE. We are nearly there…
Images: The Hoot Leeds
"All the building work is complete and now we are finishing off the decorating. You might also start to see some signage appearing over the next few days…It has been lovely seeing some of our customers dropping by to see us whilst we slowly lose our sanity.
"Powered on caffeine and determination! Not long to go before we can announce our opening date and welcome you through the doors."
We can't wait to check out the new space, keep an eye on their opening date here.
Cult favourite burger chain Burgerism is officially coming to Leeds this August
Clementine Hall
An award-winning burger chain is coming to one of Leeds' suburbs.
If you don't know Burgerism, then get to know.
The Manchester-based burger chain is known by many for its incredible smash patties and quick, reliable service.
Their concept is simple: good burgers made with quality ingredients and cooked fresh to order. Delicious.
And it's not just burgers, they've also got some great wings and fries available too with a range of homemade sauces on offer for dunking, drizzling and devouring. We're a particular fan of the buffalo wings with their garlic ranch dip.
The chain used to have a dark kitchen on the outskirts of the city where people could order via Deliveroo, however this closed down and since then there's been a Burgerism-shaped hole left in our foodie scene.
Image: The Hoot Leeds
Burgerism recently applied to move into a vacant shop unit in Meanwood at 605 Meanwood Road, seeking change-of-use planning permission for the former Papa Johns site which was previously only allowed to serve...well, pizzas.
And the plans have now been approved, which means Burgerism will officially be coming to Leeds. Hurray!
Burgerism's new takeaway will be walking distance from the The Meanwood Tavern, perfect for those looking for some post-pint burgers.
It will be strictly takeaway with no dine-in option available.
The brand-new Burgerism will employ 15 people from the local area with food being served between 11am and 11pm.
We'll keep you up to date as and when we find out more, but for now we're aware that Burgerism Leeds is set to open this August.
Daisy Jackson -
7th May 2025 
