The concept was nothing else like Leeds has seen before.
The Leeds’ People’s Gym had been run for the people of Leeds, by the people of Leeds since opening in October 2023, but the owners have sadly announced that just three months after opening, the business has ceased trading with immediate effect.
The news was announced on Instagram with the message: "We are devastated to announce that as of 12 noon on Monday 29th January 2024.
"The Leeds People's Gym will cease to trade with immediate effect. Unfortunately, despite our best efforts, we couldn't reach enough folks quickly enough to make the business viable.
"We'd like to say a big and heartfelt 'thank you' to our members and supporters, without whom this journey would have been impossible. We believe in the importance of having inclusive spaces, and hope that our closure doesn't dampen your spirits, because safe and inclusive spaces in Leeds are desperately needed now more than ever.
"We'd like to say a special thank you to some of the local groups and organisations who have supported us especially Bi+ Leeds Social Group, Mental Health Mates Leeds, Strega Running Club and Wharf Chambers.
"We will update you on how to recover any membership fees you have paid as soon as we can.
"We're so sorry
"The whole team at The Leeds People's Gym."
Images: The Hoot Leeds
The alternative to the usual sweaty, overly boisterous chain gyms popping up all over the city, had worked tirelessly to try and make sure everybody felt welcome inside a gym environment.
Chris Woods and Daniel Browne said upon opening: “we’ve been there, we’ve gotten to the front doors and gone straight back home, we’ve been bullied off equipment. No more. Gyms can be different, we’re different.
“Join a gym where you can access fitness without the judgement, without the intimidation, without the ego.”
And this really did feel like the alternative gym everyone needs to try out in the city.
Besides the ‘Community Wall’ set to be packed with resources for those wanting to support their local indies or residents, everything in the four-floor building has been designed to deconstruct any ‘typically toxic’ messages or experiences people may have had in other gym environments, to welcome everyone to a judgement-free workout space.
It was clear that the entire ethos from The Leeds People's Gym was to bring the community together and lift people's spirits through exercise - an admirable concept Leeds was lucky to have, even if it was just for a short amount of time.
Feature Image - The Hoot Leeds
Leeds
Deliveroo to bring robot food deliveries to Leeds in major UK rollout
Deliveroo and Coco Robotics are set to bring robot deliveries to Leeds through a new strategic partnership.
Next time you order a takeaway...let's just say, it could look a little different.
In the new exclusive partnership, Deliveroo and Coco Robotics are launching in multiple locations, beginning with Canary Wharf in London this October, before launching here in Leeds as well as Milton Keynes, Stockton on Tees and Nottingham in the coming weeks and months.
The rollout marks Coco Robotic's entry into the UK, extending the company’s broader expansion across Europe.
While the majority of orders will continue to be fulfilled by Deliveroo’s rider network, Coco’s fully electric robots are suited to short-distances and navigating urban environments, offering additional flexibility to local businesses on Deliveroo’s platform.
The robots operate at walking place, meaning they're able to move safely through busy streets whilst carrying orders directly to customers.
Image: Supplied
Miki Kuusi, CEO at Deliveroo and Head of DoorDash International: “London is where Deliveroo was born, so it feels fitting that we’re launching our first UK autonomous delivery service with Coco Robotics here before expanding our exclusive partnership to more towns and cities nationwide, building on our partnership in other geographies.
“We see huge potential in autonomous delivery and we are looking forward to working with Coco to bring more flexibility to our delivery network, helping local restaurants and shops meet increasing consumer demand. We firmly believe that robot and drone technology should benefit High Street businesses of all sizes, helping them remain competitive and meet consumers in new ways.”
Councillor Tom Hinchcliffe, Leeds City Council’s executive member for transport and planning, said: "Our council is determined to embrace the opportunities offered by emerging technology. This approach has already helped establish Leeds as a location for hosting and advising on robot delivery trials.
“Supporting innovation means attracting investment. That's why we are now pleased to be working with Coco Robotics regarding the city’s future involvement in the UK rollout of their partnership with Deliveroo.
“We look forward to exploring the benefits that the rollout can bring to Leeds and its residents.”
Leeds microbrewery launches Crowdfunder campaign to open city centre taproom
Clementine Hall
A popular microbrewery in Leeds has launched a £40k Crowdfunder campaign to help them open a new taproom in the city centre.
Born in 2020, Tartarus Beers set out with the aim to produce high quality craft beer with a 'mythical edge'.
From a 100L kit to a 2500L brewery in Sheepscar just outside of Leeds city centre, they have grown to have a small cult following over the years.
They closed their Sheepscar taproom back in 2025, and now they're setting their sites on another location in the city centre so customers can enjoy a freshly poured pint of their lager, IPA or stout.
Images: Tartarus Brewery
And to help them get there, Tartarus have launched a Crowdfunder campaign of £40k asking their following to donate whatever they can to help them reach their goal.
Announcing the news to Instagram, Tartarus said: We are opening a bar in Leeds and would love your help!
"So many of you have asked when we would be opening our taproom or bar! We are excited to say the time is now!... or, well soon. Location to be announced but we can confirm it's in Leeds.
"We have launched a crowdfund and would love for you to get involved...We hope to see you all soon, at the Tartarus Tap!"
Images: Tartarus Brewery
"Expect international beers on tap and in the fridges, plus special events where we will be hosting international breweries! We will of course have a wide range of Tartarus Beers available on tap & in the fridges, plus meads, wines & no-low options. Oh and don't forget the rare bottles from our secret cellar."
So far, the campaign has raised £7,000 with prizes such as a branded t shirt, vouchers and discount cards available as incentives depending on how much you donate.
You can donate to the Tartarus Tap Crowdfunder here.
Sophie Smith -
30th January 2024 
