Plans Advance for Leeds Kirkgate Market Leisure Attraction
March 27, 2026New container village proposal aims to enhance market and city centre
Plans for a new leisure attraction at Leeds Kirkgate Market have progressed with the submission of a planning application for a ‘container village’ development. The scheme, proposed by STACK Leisure, seeks to introduce a fresh leisure and hospitality element to the market’s outdoor trading area, potentially increasing visitor numbers and supporting the wider city centre economy.
Details of the proposed development
The application, submitted on 27 March 2026, outlines a two-storey structure composed of repurposed shipping containers. The development would be located within part of the market’s outdoor trading space and is designed to include:
- Six bars
- Eight street food outlets
- A coffee shop
- A large stage for live entertainment
- Giant digital screens
- Marquee-style ‘stretch tents’ partially covering the central plaza
STACK Leisure operates similar container village venues in Lincoln, Middlesbrough, Newcastle, and Sunderland, where the model has reportedly brought economic benefits and increased footfall to surrounding areas.
Impact on the market and local businesses
The market’s outdoor trading area currently accommodates up to 185 stalls, with approximately 85 occupied on the busiest days. The introduction of the container village would reduce the number of pitches but is expected to still comfortably house all existing traders alongside new businesses. The development would remain one of the largest outdoor market sites in the region.
STACK Leisure would fund the construction of the container village, and rental income from the scheme would provide a new revenue stream for Leeds City Council.
Comments from stakeholders
Neill Winch, chief executive of STACK Leisure, stated that the project is expected to bring significant economic benefits to the area by increasing footfall not only to the new venue but also to the indoor and outdoor market. He emphasised the company’s commitment to community engagement and support for independent businesses.
Leeds City Council’s deputy leader and executive member for economy, transport and sustainable development, Councillor Jonathan Pryor, highlighted the market’s historic significance and expressed optimism about the proposal. He noted that the development would complement recent council-led improvements and contribute to making Leeds city centre a more attractive destination.
Ongoing improvements at Leeds Kirkgate Market
The market is currently undergoing a £10 million project to repair and enhance the 1875 ‘blockshops’, the oldest surviving structures on the site. The first phase was completed in 2023, with the second phase expected to finish later in 2026.
The planning application marks a key step in the potential delivery of the container village, with further decisions awaited regarding its approval and implementation.
