Leeds Arena is 'catalyst' for regenerating city centre - senior councillor

A new arena will lead the economic regeneration of Leeds city centre and be the catalyst for hundreds of millions of pounds of new investment, a senior councillor has claimed. Former council leader Conservative councillor Andrew Carter told yesterday's council executive board meeting that the impact of the new Leeds Arena to the city centre shoudl not be underestimated. He was speaking as councillors approved the detailed design and cost plans for the £55 million development. Carter said: "No-one should underestimate the catalyst this arena wil provide to the regeneration of the city and the confidence of retail and leisure sector. Its location will pull people through the city centre to the tune of an estimated one million people a year. "It is not a coincidence that Land Securities' Trinity scheme has restarted work and other important developments are starting to see life again - do not underestimate the importance of Leeds Arena in helping to deliver those schemes for the city. "Anyone thinking of investing in the city should look at the February 2013 opening date to coincide what will be a major success for the city." A report considered by councillors said that the arena could be worth £25 million a year to the Leeds economy. Council leader Keith Wakefield heralded the creation of hundreds of new jobs and new apprenticeships as a result of the project. Liberal Democrat leader Stewart Golton added: "It's a totem for that area of Leeds and a signal that things are going to get better." Councillors were told that the scheme was progressing well, on time and within budget and due to be completed at the end of 2012 in time for the venue opening Ferbuarty 2013. Construction work is expected to start in early 2011. What do you think? Have your say in the comments section below.