Victoria Gate and John Lewis confirm opening date

Victoria Gate, the new landmark shopping destination in Leeds, which will have John Lewis as its "anchor tenant", has confirmed an opening date of 20 October.

Being built by developer Hammerson, the £165m scheme will offer "aspirational" retail, dining and leisure and will form part of the 53,400 sqm Victoria Estate shopping district, which also includes the historic Victoria Quarter shopping arcades.

The development is already 74% let and fashion and beauty brands signed up include Russell & Bromley, Aspinal of London, Neom Organics, GANT, Hackett, Tommy Hilfiger and Anthropologie. For many brands this will be their first store in the city.

Hammerson director retail development Robin Dobson said the timing of the opening was ideal to take advantage of pre-Christmas trade. "We are delighted to bring this new and iconic retail destination to Leeds and one that is set to be the largest premium retail and leisure destination outside of London. We look forward to disclosing further detail about the launch celebrations shortly," he said.

John Lewis said its store will be its most "service and experiential led shop to date" as it continues to offer more for customers that "can't be replicated online". "My new team of partners are really looking forward to serving the people of Leeds and welcoming everyone on opening day," said Leeds head of branch James Prince.