Leeds Launches 10-Year Plan to Create 100,000 Jobs

October 24, 2025 Off By

New economic vision aims to boost growth and investment across the city

Leeds City Council has unveiled an ambitious 10-year economic vision and delivery plan designed to stimulate £20 billion in economic growth and generate 100,000 new jobs. The plan outlines a strategic roadmap to strengthen the city’s economy by focusing on key sectors and infrastructure projects while enhancing Leeds’ profile on the national and international stage.

Framework and strategic alignment

The Leeds Economic Vision is developed in alignment with national and regional strategies, including the UK Government’s National Industrial Strategy and the West Yorkshire Growth Plan. It builds upon the city’s existing Leeds Ambitions and sets out seven key steps to drive growth, innovation, and resilience.

Major projects supporting growth

Leeds’ track record of economic delivery underpins the vision, supported by several significant projects currently underway or planned:

£160 million expansion of the Royal Armouries Museum
Regeneration and expansion of Elland Road stadium, with potential to unlock billions in investment
Mixed-use development at Aire Park, featuring the UK’s largest new city centre park, supported by over £40 million in infrastructure investment
Collaboration with West Yorkshire Combined Authority to advance mass transit plans and improve transport connectivity

Focus sectors for investment and job creation

The vision identifies three priority sectors expected to drive significant growth and employment opportunities:

Financial and Professional Services (FPS): Currently accounting for 40% of Leeds’ Gross Value Added (GVA), this sector aims to double its growth, creating 50,000 new jobs. Leeds is home to the “Northern Square Mile” and hosts institutions such as the Bank of England and the Financial Conduct Authority, positioning it as a potential leading centre for FinTech.
Digital and Technology: With over 3,000 digital and data companies, this sector added 12,000 jobs between 2015 and 2022. Investments like Microsoft’s hyperscale datacentre commitment are expected to further drive innovation and digital adoption.
Health and HealthTech: Leveraging Leeds’ international strengths in health innovation and aligning with the West Yorkshire Investment Zone, this sector is targeted for expansion.

The plan also recognises the ongoing importance of other sectors such as Construction and Advanced Manufacturing to the city’s economy.

Council perspective and economic context

Councillor Jonathan Pryor, deputy leader and executive board member for economy, transport and sustainable development, highlighted Leeds’ strong economic performance despite challenging conditions. He noted that Leeds was the only area in West Yorkshire to experience significant growth in 2023, with Gross Value Added rising by 2.2% and employment increasing by 14% since 2015.

He emphasised that the vision aims to close the productivity gap, which could contribute an additional £3 billion per year to the UK economy. The council’s approach focuses on inclusive growth to benefit all communities across Leeds.