John Lewis has announced that it is to open a new 20,000 square foot department store in Leeds. The new store is expected to open in the fall of 2010 and will be the principal anchor for the proposed Eastgate and Harewood Quarter development in Leeds City Centre. Worth GBP 40 million, it is expected to generate up to 900 jobs.

The Eastgate and Harewood Quarter development will not only include the new John Lewis department store. The approximatley 1,000,000 retail-led mixed use scheme will include other retail and leisure facilities, 500 residential units, 2,5000 parking spaces and a new public space. The development is being led by a joint venture known as 'The Leeds Partnership', consisting of the Hammerson developers and the Town Centre securities. The planning application will be submitted before the end of the year.

Retail Development Director for John Lewis, Ann Humphries, said: " We are delighted to have finally found the right location for John Lewis to serve Leeds and the extensive Yorkshire catchment area. We know that many of these customers already visit our department stores, and we are excited at the prospect of providing them with a John Lewis closer to home."

This announcement is part of John Lewis's plans to open ten new stores in new locations from 2007. By opening the store in Leeds, John Lewis will fill an important regional gap in its UK coverage.