Keir Mather, Labour MP for Selby and Kippax, and Government Assistant Whip, Katie White, Labour MP for Leeds North West, and Alex Sobel, Labour (Co-op) MP for Leeds Central and Headingley, visited Leeds Trinity University’s City Campus for the first time, while the Rt Hon Hilary Benn returned following his previous visit in April 2024, to discuss how Leeds Trinity can support the region’s plans for growth. 

They were hosted by Professor Charles Egbu, Vice-Chancellor of Leeds Trinity University, and joined by members of the Executive team Professor Catherine O’Connor, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Education and Experience, Jo Hynes, Chief Operating Officer, alongside Leeds Trinity colleagues Paula Reynier, Director of Professional Education and Online Learning, and Tony Blockley, Head of School of Criminology, Investigation and Policing. 

The MPs were updated on the University’s plans and priorities to maximise the potential of its new presence in the heart of Leeds. They were also given an insight into how Leeds Trinity works with employers on its degree apprenticeship programmes to combine higher education qualifications, work experience and industry-relevant skills to help develop a flexible, highly proficient workforce.

Keir Mather MP said: “It was great to visit the new City Centre campus, and to hear from students and staff about their ambitions for the future. I believe firmly in the power of higher education, and I look forward to working alongside fellow Leeds MPs to support the vital role that our universities play in our city’s economy, identity and culture.” 

Leeds Trinity University’s City Campus, located at 1 Trevelyan Square in Leeds city centre, is home to courses in Business, Law, Computer Science, Criminology, and Construction and Built Environment – subjects expected to thrive and grow in the heart of the dynamic Leeds economy. Sustainability has been at the forefront of the development of the City Campus, which has been designed to meet BREEAM Excellent as a minimum in design and operation. 

Its specialist facilities include a board room, law court, custody suite and labs to enhance learning opportunities and familiarise students with the environments and equipment they will regularly experience once they have graduated and begin their careers. 

Professor Charles Egbu, Vice-Chancellor of Leeds Trinity University, said: “We were delighted to welcome Keir Mather and colleagues Hilary Benn, Katie White and Alex Sobel to our new city campus, following its official opening at the start of the year. Leeds Trinity University continues to develop and expand its facilities, course provision and partnerships in the city. It was inspiring to discuss our plans, values and priorities with such a key stakeholder, who is supporting our growth ambitions in Yorkshire and the Humber.” 

Leeds Trinity University is an anchor institution within the Leeds Anchor Network, working to make a difference across the city, contribute to local areas and create opportunities for the people of Leeds. The new city centre campus underpins the University’s growing role in innovation, engagement and civic impact through its highly skilled students, alumni and staff and growing course provision and opportunities, and complements the University’s Main Campus in Horsforth. 

To find out more about Leeds Trinity University’s city campus, visit the website.