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.”
An independent açai bowl pop-up is opening a permanent cafe in Leeds city centre.
It seems the açai bowl trend isn't over just yet, and we're absolutely not mad about it.
The aesthetically purple frozen treat isn't just delicious, but is also known to have numerous health benefits making it guilt-free and the perfect post-workout pick me up.
You may remember Açai Social Club that opened as a pop-up in the Victoria Quarter last year, and now they're moving into a permanent spot in the city centre.
Run by a lovely husband and wife duo who have spent the last 15 months exploring cafes around the world, it's safe to say they know exactly what they're talking about.
Their açai is made with the very best ingredients, topped with the freshest fruit and sprinkled with their homemade granola - it doesn't get much better then that does it?
Announcing the very exciting news to Instagram, they said: "Açai Social Club is getting a home. Our very first store is officially on the way! We’ve been working behind the scenes to create a space that’s more about than just açai.
"What started as an idea is finally becoming something you can walk into…There’s still a lot we’re keeping under wraps for now, but we’re so excited to finally share the beginning of what’s to come.
"We can’t wait to open our doors and welcome you in. Your new neighbourhood social club, coming soon."
The exact location of the cafe and its opening date is still under wraps, but we'll of course keep you updated as and when we find out.
Inside FaceGym – Leeds’ newest facial fitness studio loved by celebrities
Clementine Hall
We hope you're ready for your workout, because FaceGym has landed in Leeds.
You may be wondering...what on earth is Facegym? And to be fair, you've got a point.
FaceGym, as they themselves describe it, a 'non-invasive fitness studio concept for the face' using high-intensity facial massage, hand manipulation, and electrical muscle stimulation technology to tone, lift, and sculpt the face without surgery.
Sounds pretty fancy if you ask us, and it feels just as fancy from the moment you step through the door.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Unsurprisingly, it's loved by celebrities worldwide who are looking to get snatched and ditch their gua sha.
Currently occupying five standalone stores in London, one in Cambridge as well as a pop-up in Space NK in Selfridges Manchester, FaceGym will be opening this Friday 18 September inside the coveted Victoria Gate, taking over a 1,772 square foot studio.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
The space really does look like a gym, ditching the standard beauty salon aesthetic for an American-style gym interior complete with the iconic red FaceGym balls all over the place.
A signature sculpt costs £110 for a 45 minute treatment, so it's definitely a treat if you're looking to have skin that can reflect the sun and cheekbones for days.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Angelo Castello, chief executive at Facegym, said: “We’re incredibly excited to bring Facegym to Leeds and to open in the beautiful Victoria Gate. The city has a thriving beauty, wellness, and retail scene, making it the perfect location for our next studio.
“We’ve seen growing demand from customers across Yorkshire, and we can’t wait to introduce even more people to the benefits of facial fitness.”
You can find out more and book a treatment at FaceGym via their website here.
Georgina Pellant -
11th August 2021 
