Leeds Kirkgate Market is preparing for its next chapter of growth, with councillors set to approve an ambitious five-year strategy that includes plans for a container-style food and drink venue, a new hotel, and continued expansion of its independent trader base.
The strategy, going before Leeds City Council’s executive board on 11 February, builds on impressive momentum from the previous five years, during which the Grade I listed market saw footfall surge 33 per cent and welcomed nearly 20 new businesses in the past year alone. This leeds retail news story underscores the market’s resurgence as one of the city’s most vibrant destinations for independent retail and street food.
The 2026-2031 plan centres on maintaining Kirkgate’s upward trajectory through a mix of physical investment and community programming. Subject to planning approval, STACK Leeds — a container-based food, drink and entertainment concept — will occupy part of the outdoor trading area, bringing a format already proven in Newcastle, Middlesbrough and Lincoln to the city centre.
Additionally, the council is exploring a hotel and public gym development on the George Street side of the market, pending final costings and approval.
Leeds Retail News: Market Footfall Climbs as Indie Traders Flourish
Kirkgate Market welcomed 5.9 million visitors in 2024, up four per cent on the previous year and marking a dramatic recovery from pandemic-era lows. The figures reflect a broader renaissance driven by more than £11 million of investment in the historic blockshops area between 2021 and 2026, which saw units upgraded with new canopies, roller shutters, LED lighting and improved storage.
The market has also dramatically expanded its leeds retail news appeal through street food, now offering everything from Yorkshire specialities to cuisine from Italy, Greece, India and Vietnam across dozens of stalls. An old butcher’s shop near the Market Kitchen has been converted into two new food-to-go units, further diversifying the offer.
Councillor Jonathan Pryor, deputy leader and executive member for economy, transport and sustainable development, said
“Leeds Kirkgate Market is a hugely important part of local life and it’s a real source of pride that we, as a council, have been able to support it so strongly over the last five years through a mix of investment and innovative thinking.
“Recovery from the effects of the pandemic has not been easy, but today the market is in good shape and ready to face the future with confidence.
“We know, though, that we cannot afford to rest on our laurels and this new five-year strategy contains much to be excited about.
“My thanks to everyone at the market who took part in the consultation activity, it has played a vital role in the development of the strategy.
“Your support – and indeed the hard work and dedication that we see from traders and staff week in, week out – will help us ensure that Leeds Kirkgate Market continues to go from strength to strength.”
The strategy also commits to maintaining the free events programme for families, which has become a key driver of footfall during school holidays, and to widening the market’s digital reach through social media while helping traders build their own online presence.
The new 2026-2031 strategy document and an accompanying report to executive board can be found at agenda item number 18 here.
