Freight Island serves up Leeds expansion

A city centre food and leisure destination is set for its biggest transformation to date following a significant new investment.

Trinity Leeds has confirmed that Freight Island will operate the expanded Trinity Kitchen as part of a £15 million redevelopment, marking the centre’s largest investment since opening. 

Since launching in 2013, Trinity Kitchen has built a reputation for its rotating street-food concept, supporting nearly 300 independent traders. 

Freight Island, which first opened in Manchester in 2020 and is set to launch in Newcastle later this year, is set to bring its fourth UK venue to Leeds.

The project will transform a previously unused area above Trinity Kitchen into a 63,000sq ft food and leisure space, including a new roof terrace offering views across City Square alongside enhanced indoor dining and social areas.

Steven Foster, centre director at Trinity Leeds, said: “Delivering an exceptional visitor experience has always been our top priority here at Trinity Leeds. 

“Since launching in 2013, Trinity Kitchen has been an exciting and evolving concept, and our new plans will mark its most exciting chapter yet. 

“The venue will be transformed into a spectacular multi-level dining, entertainment and dynamic leisure venue, enhanced by additional space and a new terrace to bring the atmosphere outdoors.

“Freight Island will help to elevate our food and drink offering, creating an expansive and immersive venue, with exciting opportunities for new brands and operators to join our thriving community. 

“Together, we will build on Trinity Kitchen’s decade-long success, ensuring it continues to grow its appeal as a best-in-class food and leisure destination.”

Dan Morris, managing director of Freight Island, added: “Trinity Kitchen is an iconic Leeds destination with a decade-long reputation for championing independent food traders and creating a genuinely social dining experience. 

“We’re incredibly excited to be bringing Freight Island to Trinity Leeds as part of this landmark expansion.

“This project allows us to build on what Trinity Kitchen already does so well, while introducing new energy, scale and creativity through an expanded food and leisure offer, a brand-new entertainment space and a standout rooftop terrace overlooking the city. 

“Food will remain at the heart of the venue, with menus driven by independent chefs and operators, alongside a programme of DJs, sports, performances, cultural and family events, all with a strong focus on showcasing and supporting local Leeds talent.

“Leeds is a city with a powerful cultural identity and a thriving creative and food scene. 

“We look forward to working closely with Landsec and Trinity Leeds to create a destination that supports local operators, creates jobs, nurtures homegrown talent and delivers something truly special for the city.”

Planning approval has been granted by Leeds City Council, with construction due to begin in late spring 2026, while Trinity Kitchen remains open.

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