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.”
Feature image – Obiwakka
