In the market for more visitors as improvements draw in businesses

More new businesses have opened in Leeds Kirkgate Market following its multi-million pound improvements programme.

- by Harriet Sutton

A total of 18 businesses have opened at the historic market over the past year, increasing the range of goods on sale.

One of the recently-opened businesses, Zen & Pops, is based in the 1904 Hall and specialises in autism-friendly sensory and educational toys.

Toys Shop, another newcomer that is sure to be a hit with younger customers, can be found in the 1981 Hall.

Luggage retailer Bargain Bags has opened in the 1981 Hall while a furniture business, Buy Direct UK, that was already trading at the market, has expanded its presence by moving into a large previously-vacant unit, again in the 1981 Hall.

The recent flurry of openings has come as work continues on Leeds City Council's £10m refurbishment of the market's 19th-century 'blockshops' area.