The first phase of the prestigious new Eastgate Quarters development in Leeds, could be open by Autumn 2016.

Construction of the Harewood development is expected to get underway in the summer of 2014 following initial work on the £110million first phase of Eastgate Quarters beginning this autumn. Developer Hammerson has indicated that they will be submitting a detailed planning application this coming spring that will see the launch of Harewood in autumn 2016.

To be designed by Acme, the first phase will deliver a 260,000 sq ft flagship John Lewis store and plans to construct up to 30 retail units, six restaurants and additional leisure space. There are also plans to build a multi-storey car park on the site of the current Millgarth police station. When completed, the Eastgate Quarters will accommodate around 99,000 square metres (1 million sq ft) of new retail and leisure space.

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As well as a welcome boost to retail and tourism, the project is set to provide a much needed injection into local employment and a boon for construction workers in the area.

Cllr Keith Wakefield, Leader of Leeds City Council said:

"Eastgate Quarters is a hugely significant development for the city which will enable our retail sector to compete with other British cities and attract international visitors and investors. It will bring thousands of new visitors to the city as well as creating a significant number of jobs for local people."

(Hmc)