Vision
Welcome to the grand utopia of Leeds—where we’re not just aiming for greatness; we’re on a quest to achieve the mythical trio of health, wealth, and carbon neutrality. That’s right, folks! Forget about world peace; we’re here to save the planet, one shopping centre at a time. The Council has bravely taken a leap into ‘Inclusive Growth’ and ‘Sustainable Infrastructure’—because nothing says progress like making sure our community hubs are the last places to exist in a digital wasteland.
The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) has our back (para 86), proclaiming that town centres are like the heart of local communities—beating away in a state of ecstatic planning bliss. Yet, plot twist! The truth is, our town centres are undergoing quite the glow-up, adapting to the whims of our changing retail habits.
Current Issues
Surprise! The retail landscape has morphed more rapidly than a teenager’s mood swings. With online shopping taking the helm—thank you, pandemic!—our once-vibrant centres are grappling with the existential dilemma of their purpose. Our magical ‘Core Strategy’ has graciously outlined 61 centres across Leeds to serve as the lifeblood to our economy. However, with all these changes, the planning policies seem to have aged like milk left out in the sun.
Say hello to the new Class E (Commercial, business and service), which barged its way into planning policy on September 1, 2020, like an uninvited guest at a wedding. This class of uses allows businesses to swap their identities faster than a child attending a costume party, with little concern for planning permission. Policies RTC2 and 3? Well, let’s just say they need a bit of a glow-up, as they’ve been left far behind in the age of flexibility.
Now, let’s turn our attention to the ‘Hot Food Takeaway SPD’—the 2019 superhero of food policy! This document restricts takeaways near schools, which is quite the noble endeavor. But wouldn’t it be delightful if we rode the wave of new national guidelines and revised this SPD to actually reflect the culinary apocalypse brought on by takeaways?
What Might New Policy Do to Address This?
With LLP 2040 on the horizon, we have a chance to reimagine how centres can exist in harmony with the ever-changing art of convenience. The pandemic and fluctuating shopping habits have given us little choice but to adapt our policies like chameleons on a rainbow. However, we ought to keep in mind that not all changes require a planning application—so is anyone really in control?
As we stir the pot of policy formulation, consider whether we need whimsical amendments related to the magical world of Class E. Should we create clear guidelines or just leave it as is, like an old piece of furniture that’s just ‘part of the scenery’? Who knows? Perhaps amending policies may backfire and expose our beloved centres to the chaotic winds of change.
What Do We Need to Get There?
Alright, let’s roll up our sleeves! For starters, we need an evidence base brimming with town centre assessments, highlighting our needs like the gleaming trophies they are. We must review the Leeds City Centre boundary to ensure it accurately reflects the dreams and aspirations of its inhabitants—or at least those who can afford a coffee in one of its overpriced cafes.
And let’s not forget our hot food takeaway SPD research. It’s crucial to examine the impact of this policy and perhaps even push it a step further. After all, what’s a Leeds that can’t enjoy some regulation over fast food while keeping an eye on the rising obesity statistics? A little irony never hurt!
Have Your Say
Buckle up, because the consultation is open— from Friday, February 10 until the eve of destruction, a.k.a. March 24, 2023. Don’t miss the chance to voice your opinions, whether it’s outlandish ideas or torture tests for new policies. Complete the online survey, and let’s whip Leeds into shape, one awkward but necessary survey question at a time.
