Law firm Weightmans has renewed its support for Leeds 2023 despite the city missing out on being recognised as the European Capital of Culture.
The city’s 2023 bid collapsed last year following confirmation that Leeds would be ineligible to participate once the UK leaves the EU.
Despite being ineligible to be recognised as the European Capital of Culture, Leeds is pressing ahead with its own six-year cultural investment programme, which will culminate in a year-long celebration of the city’s local and international cultural connection in 2023.
The ongoing support from a host of sponsors, including Weightmans, across Leeds will see the partners give employee time, branding, marketing and events support, to promote the project, as well as financial backing to help develop initiatives.
David Israel, head of partnerships for the Leeds 2023 programme at Leeds City Council, said more organisations were welcome to come forward and give their backing.
He said: “The continuing support from the business community in Leeds and beyond, both during the original bid and following the launch of plans for how the city will move forward with its cultural ambitions in January, has been nothing short of extraordinary.
“It’s fantastic to see such high levels of business engagement and enthusiasm for the next exciting chapter of the Leeds 2023 journey and we’re looking forward to working with our partners over the coming months as we maintain momentum and work to create a strong and meaningful legacy across the whole city.”
Weightmans has had an office in Leeds since 2015, when it merged with firm Ford & Warren.
Helen Brown, partner and head of the Leeds office at Weightmans, said: “Leeds is a great place to work, live and do business; boasting strong links in the financial, legal and technology sectors—it is one of the largest business centres outside London and growing fast. We are delighted to support the Leeds 2023 programme and look forward to working with colleagues from organisations across the region to celebrate all the city has to offer.”