A new container style leisure attraction is looking to be coming to Leeds Kirkgate Market as plans have taken a huge step forward. STACK, which also has a venue in Middlesborough, is the preferred operator of the venue where a mix of food, drink and entertainment would be available.
The council and STACk has announced the signing of a formal lease agreement taking a step forward. Subject to licensing and planning approvals, the start of construction on the scheme could be just months away.
The current plant show STACK Leeds spread across to floors with a central plaza seating area covered by a stretch tent for shelter. The plaza would be home to two large digital screens as well as a stage for live music and other entertainment.
Food wise it would be home to ten street food outlets, six bars and a coffee shop meaning there would be lots of choice for customers to enjoy and it would be a lively hub on the city centre.
Looking at the likes of Yorkshire’s most popular container leisure venue the independently run SPARK:York which adds a touch of cool to an otherwise old-fashioned city. These kind of parks give great opportunity to new businesses and also are a great way to to create jobs with 160 jobs expected to be created.
If premises licenses are approved building work could start early 2026 with a view to the venue opening later in the year.
STACK would meet construction costs with rental payments generating a new income stream for the council.
The outdoor trading space currently fills 85 of the 185 stalls. Should STACK Leeds secure the necessary licensing and planning approvals, the number of pitches would be reduced and the freed-up space used as the location for the scheme.
Councillor Jonathan Pryor, Leeds City Council’s deputy leader and executive member for economy, transport and sustainable development, said: “The plans for STACK Leeds are really exciting and underline our ongoing commitment to backing and investing in Leeds Kirkgate Market.
“I’m delighted, therefore, that the project has now reached this important milestone, thanks to a great deal of hard work from both the council and STACK.
“Together we are determined to ensure that the new venue is very much part of the market, rather than a standalone attraction.
More than 2.5m people have flocked to STACK Seaburn since it opened on the North East coast in 2020.
Neill Winch, STACK’s chief executive officer, said: “We’re delighted to be taking this important step towards bringing STACK to Leeds. This is a city with incredible energy and a proud sense of community, which makes it a perfect location for our concept.
“While STACK continues to grow across the UK, our focus remains on creating spaces that celebrate local culture, support independent businesses and provide somewhere people can come together to enjoy great food, drink and live entertainment.
“Importantly, our offer will complement the fantastic outdoor and indoor market by attracting a new audience and, by opening seven days a week from early morning until late, we’ll help drive footfall and support the market’s wider ecosystem.
“We’re excited to work with Leeds City Council to deliver a destination that adds real value to Kirkgate Market and the city centre.”
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