Leeds Kirkgate Market £12m revamp approved by councillors

The scheme would begin with the replacement of the roofs on both buildings

A multimillion-pound development for the landmark Kirkgate market in the centre of Leeds has been approved.

The city council's executive board agreed the £12.3m scheme, which includes the redevelopment of the covered market's interior.

The works would be paid for by money generated by the market.

Initial work is expected to start with the replacement of the roofs on both the original and later buildings, the Labour-controlled council said.

A central events space, new routes through the site and the relocation of the butcher's row closer to the fish and game stalls are also planned.

The George Street facade of the site is earmarked for redevelopment in a separate scheme that would "complement the adjacent Eastgate development" which is destined to include a new John Lewis store.

There would also be new ground floor shops that open into the market with homes built above.