Leeds £700m regen scheme clears hurdle

The proposal for a £700 million retail-led regeneration of Leeds city centre has cleared a major obstacle, with Communities and Local Government Secretary Hazel Blears having approved a compulsory purchase order on the land.

The decision followed a public inquiry on the scheme, in the north-eastern precinct of the city, last year.

The project, which has outline planning permission, is being developed by Town Centre Securities and Hammerson.

It is due for completion in 2012.