Leeds Strengthens Ties with German Twin Cities

Longstanding partnerships with Dortmund and Siegen celebrated

Leeds City Council has highlighted its enduring relationships with the German cities of Dortmund and Siegen following the presentation of a German-British Friendship Award to Councillor Robert Gettings. The award recognises his six decades of commitment to fostering connections between Leeds and its German partners.

Historical background of Leeds’ German partnerships

The twinning relationships between Leeds and the German cities date back to the 1950s, a period when many European towns and cities sought to build peace and understanding after the Second World War. Leeds and Dortmund, sharing similar industrial backgrounds, formalised their twinning agreement in 1969.

Leeds’ connection with Siegen began even earlier, with a youth exchange between Morley (now part of Leeds) and Siegen in 1952. Morley Town Council established a formal partnership with Siegen in 1966. After local government reorganisation in the early 1970s, which incorporated Morley into Leeds City Council, the partnership was maintained and Siegen became Leeds’ second German twin city in 1974.

Ongoing exchanges and collaborations

Over the years, the partnerships have involved numerous school and youth exchanges, trade missions, and collaborations between arts organisations, sports teams, and community groups. The relationship with Dortmund remains particularly active, focusing on areas such as regeneration, innovation, and economic development.

• Academics from Leeds and Dortmund universities collaborate on sports technology research.
• Language learning opportunities are available for Leeds residents through a Dortmund-based language school.
• Football clubs Leeds United and Borussia Dortmund maintain strong links, sharing expertise on sports stadium regeneration.

The partnership with Siegen continues to be community-led, with grassroots links promoting cultural and educational exchanges. In the 1970s, many schools in Morley were twinned with counterparts in Siegen, and hundreds of young people participated in exchange programmes.

Recognition of Councillor Robert Gettings

In recognition of his longstanding dedication to the Morley-Siegen partnership and German-British relations, Councillor Robert Gettings was awarded the German-British Friendship Award by the German Embassy in London. The award honours individuals who have made exceptional contributions to strengthening ties between the two nations.

Deputy Leader and executive member for economy, transport and sustainable development, Councillor Jonathan Pryor, commented on the importance of these international relationships. He emphasised that city diplomacy plays a vital role in promoting peace and economic growth, particularly in challenging times. Councillor Pryor described the award as an honour not only for Councillor Gettings but also for Leeds as a whole, recognising the value of the city’s partnerships.

Further information

A wayfinding sign in Dortmund Square, Leeds, commemorates the historical connection between Leeds and Dortmund. The sign serves as a reminder of the enduring friendship between the cities.