The office is busier than ever in Leeds thanks to recent development in the city centre.
Like thousands of other commuters around the country, Leeds workers are flocking back to the office in their masses this morning.
The influx of new opportunities within the hustle and bustle of the city centre is thought to have been made possible thanks to the likes of Channel 4, Platform and 34 Boar Lane all opening their doors over the past twelve months to new creative and tech talent.
Platform. / Image: Bruntwood SciTech
A spokesperson for Knight Frank, the UK's leading independent estate agents, stated this week that the knock on effect of bringing national TV giants Channel 4 to the city has allowed Leeds to become "a magnet for bright, young tech, media and creative companies".
This comes after a challenging year of turbulent orders from the government in a bid to tackle the coronavirus pandemic from spreading through places of work. 2021 was a year of messages to work from home, then back in the office, then from home again- yet it was office space that thrived in places like City Square.
According to the Office for National Statistics, 85% of workers would still like the opportunity to work from a physical office or co-working space for at least part of the week- even when 100% of all jobs can be completed from home.
Platform, next to Leeds Railway Station is home to Leeds' only dedicated Tech Hub, but like so many other spaces popping up around the city, they're offering the opportunity to collaborate in a thriving co-working space with some of the latest SciTech experts.
Platform. / Image: Bruntwood SciTech
Knight Frank predict a 5% increase in rental overhead costs this year, suggesting that 2022 is set to be another busy year of development in office space in the city. This would take £34 per sq ft prices to around £36 and thought to come as a result of "high standard of some of the new office space which coming on to the market".
Platform. / Image: Bruntwood SciTech
For others, the arrival of new spaces over the past year has been an opportunity to progress and climb the career ladder. Channel 4 in particular have brought a huge opportunity for media creatives and this is only set to increase into the new year with a wave of new positions available.
The organisation is currently searching to fill roles in everything from TV production to Design Assistants, HR Operation Leads and Social Analysts.
The Guardian previously reported that the move from London to Leeds was fuelled by a fight against privatisation and that the huge office space on City Square opened in September as a workspace for around 200 of their 900+ employees.
Whilst the majority of these roles state that Leeds is the job's location, those interested in the vacancies will need to check individually which roles will involve commuting to their huge headquarters in the city centre.
"After years of late nights, strong cocktails, and incredible stories; The Maven will close its doors"
It's a sad day for the Leeds night life scene, as a beloved speakeasy bar has today announced that it will be closing its doors for good.
The Maven has been a firm favourite for many years with those looking to enjoy some experimental and expertly made cocktails.
Hidden behind an unassuming door at the top of Call Lane, it was a great spot to visit if you were looking for something that little bit special.
Announcing the news to their social media, The Maven said: "From the bottom of our hearts we thank you for being our guests over the years and promise that until then, we'll do our best to give you the best nights out on Call Lane."
Conan Gray AND Jacob Alon join Lewis Capaldi’s Roundhay Festival line-up
Thomas Melia
US pop star Conan Gray and BRIT award winner Jacob Alon join the line-up for Lewis Capaldi's headline date at Roundhay Festival.
Leeds' Roundhay Park is welcoming back live music to its grounds this summer for two outdoor gigs headlined by Lewis Capaldi and Pitbull titled Roundhay Festival, with special guests slowly being announced.
Gray is recognised for standout tracks like 'Heather' and 'Maniac' while Alon has built a cult following of fans around their indie tunes like 'Fairy in a Bottle' as well as 'Liquid Gold 25'.
Jacob Alon has been showing off their artistry within the indie music scene thanks to their 2025 LP In Limerence catching the attention of many in the process.
This album has gone onto attract widespread love from music listeners and even industry professionals bagging themselves their first-ever BRIT award nomination and win - The Critics' Choice award.
Conan Gray AND Jacob Alon join Lewis Capaldi's Roundhay Festival line-up / Credit: Supplied via Press Shots
Conan Gray started out covering other artists hits before creating some of his own and releasing debut studio album Kid Krow back in 2020.
The project has production credits shared between Gray and Dan Nigro, Grammy-winning producer who has worked with Chappell Roan, Olivia Rodrigo, Lorde and more.
It's always exciting hearing updates like these, but this one is even more impressive as it's not just one stellar act joining the Roundhay Festival line-up but two, with further acts to be announced.
The almost 70,000 crowd who are heading down to Roundhay Festival when Lewis Capaldi makes his way to Leeds next summer are going to be blessed with some phenomenal live music.
This year marks American Express Presents Roundhay Festival first year with two star-studded dates fronted by powerhouse performers with the second show fronted by Pitbull and special guest Kesha.
These events have been organised with Leeds City Council and are expected to bring benefits to the local area by employing local suppliers, staff and boost spending on accommodation, food and entertainment.
Conan Gray and Jacob Alon will play alongside Lewis Capaldi at Roundhay Festival in Leeds on Saturday 4 July 2026 with tickets available HERE.
Sophie Smith -
4th January 2022 
