The city region comprises the ten local authority districts. More than seven hundred and fifty thousand people live within our city boundaries and over one hundred thousand people come to work in the city centre every day.

Many thousands tourists and visitors come to see the attractions Leeds has on offer. A lively city, rich in culture and heritage with lots to explore. Great shopping, fascinating architecture, world renowned sports venues and our close proximity to the beautiful Yorkshire Dales are just a few of the many attractions. It stands today as a city of regional, national and international importance. With its rich history, diverse economy, enterprising people and cosmopolitan atmosphere, Leeds looks set to continue its success story well into the future.

Excellent nightlife, with over one hundred bars, twenty five night clubs and seventy five restaurants in the city centre alone, Leeds Our city is also home to the Leeds International Pianoforte Competition and top international performing companies such as Opera North, Northern Ballet and Phoenix Dance Theatre.

Dubbed the Knightsbridge of the North Leeds is also Yorkshire and Humbersides prime shopping location. Our city has more than four and a half million square feet of retail space, set in stunning architectural surroundings such as the Victoria Quarter, Corn exchange, Headrow Centre, Leeds Shopping Plaza and The Light.

Since the Second World War and more particularly since the fifties, another transformation occurred, namely the rebuilding of the city. Tens of thousands of slum dwellings were replaced by modern housing estates which have now earned Leeds the accolade of Environment City of the UK and Leeds pioneered the Buchan principles of planning for the motor car and pedestrian.

The City Region Development Programme has been prepared and agreed by the councils. It is essentially the economic plan for the city region, focused on areas where value can be added. It is hoped to develop an internationally recognised city region to raise our economic performance to spread prosperity across the whole of our city region and to promote a better quality of life for all of those who live and work here.

Realising a stronger and more competitive economy that will benefit all areas within the city region will require coordinated and complementary action from all partners and stakeholders within the city region as well as the support of Government in helping address barriers to growth. Only then can the full economic potential be realised and the benefits felt throughout.