Leicester city centre is set for a major transformation after plans were announced for a £4 million package of improvements aimed at making the heart of the city more attractive, welcoming and vibrant for residents, businesses and visitors.
The investment programme will focus on enhancing public spaces, improving safety, supporting local businesses and strengthening infrastructure for events and future redevelopment projects. Residents can expect cleaner streets, upgraded lighting, improved signage, and better public spaces around key transport hubs and car parks.
The funding package is designed to increase confidence in the city centre, encourage more visitors and create a stronger sense of pride among local communities.
Sir Peter Soulsby, City Mayor of Leicester, said:
“We have made significant investment into the city centre in recent years, and this funding will allow us to do even more to make it an attractive and welcoming destination.
“It will boost the work that goes on every day to make it a place that residents can be proud of, and that visitors choose to return to time and again.”
The programme includes a series of targeted projects across Leicester city centre:
Improved City Centre Gateways – £300,000
Investment will deliver enhanced lighting, clearer signage and upgraded public spaces at key arrival points including the railway station, bus station and city centre car parks.
Tackling Antisocial Behaviour – £250,000
Funding will be directed towards addressing known hotspots through better lighting, additional security measures and graffiti removal initiatives.
Bringing Vacant Shops Back into Use – £200,000
Support will be provided to improve empty retail properties, helping landlords and businesses revitalise shopping streets and reduce vacancy rates.
Stronger Events Infrastructure – £200,000
Investment in facilities and infrastructure will enable more festivals, markets and events to take place throughout the year, helping drive footfall and economic activity.
Market Place and Lanes Improvements – £1.3 Million
The largest immediate allocation will fund upgrades to buildings, shopfronts, lighting and public spaces in Leicester's historic Market Place and Lanes area. Additional market stalls will also be introduced to support traders and attract visitors.
Midland Street Regeneration – £1.75 Million
Funding will help advance long-term plans for commercial development and regeneration around Midland Street, supporting future economic growth and investment opportunities.
The investment will be financed through the remaining balance of the Government's Growing Places Fund, originally established to support projects that create jobs, unlock development opportunities and stimulate economic growth.
Following the closure of the Leicester and Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership (LLEP), Leicester City Council now manages the fund. The authority reports that £10.2 million remains available, with proposals including £4 million for Leicester city centre improvements and a further £4 million for projects led by Leicestershire County Council.
The latest funding package reflects Leicester's ongoing commitment to creating a safer, more attractive and economically resilient city centre while supporting future regeneration and business growth.
Image credit: iStock
