Leeds’ £165m Victoria Gate announces October opening date

The opening date of Leeds’ £165m Victoria Gate scheme has been is set to be in October of this year.

Property developer Hammerson confirmed that Victoria Gate, which includes a flagship John Lewis store, will be officially open for business on Thursday, October 20th.

Creating more than 1,000 new jobs, the retail development will become part of the new 575,000 sq ft Victoria Estate shopping district, which also includes Leeds’ Victoria Quarter arcades.

Victoria Gate is currently 74% pre-let and will also feature new retailers and restaurants including Russell & Bromley, Aspinal of London, Le Pain Quotidien, Neom Organics, T2, GANT, Hackett, Tommy Hilfiger, Anthropologie and international restaurant group D&D.

Robin Dobson, director of retail development at Hammerson, said: “It is great to be able to confirm the official launch date for Victoria Gate as the 20th October.

“Ideally timed for pre-Christmas trade we are delighted to bring this new and iconic retail destination to Leeds and one that is set to be the largest premium retail and leisure destination outside of London. We look forward to disclosing further detail about the launch celebrations shortly.”

James Prince, head of branch at John Lewis Leeds, added: “I can’t wait for John Lewis Leeds to open its doors for the first time. It’s our most service and experiential led shop to date, as we continue to offer more for customers that can’t be replicated online. My new team of Partners are really looking forward to serving the people of Leeds and welcoming everyone on opening day.”

Councillor Judith Blake, leader of Leeds City Council, also commented: “The opening of Victoria Gate and John Lewis represents another groundbreaking moment in the development of our city centre.

“It brings hundreds of jobs and training opportunities to the city for people who live here and confirms Leeds as one of the most attractive retail destinations in the country.

“The opening comes at the optimum time for shoppers and retailers in the pre-Christmas period, attracting people from across the country into the city.

“It will add to the already superb mix of shops and traders in the area who, with the variety and vibrancy they represent together, make Leeds a truly unrivalled retail experience.”

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