Aire Park has partnered with students from neighbouring Leeds City College on its latest community initiative, resulting in the creation of a new little library installation located within the development’s expansive public park.
A group of Level 3 Business BTEC Foundation Diploma students from Leeds City College played a key role in the project, contributing to every stage from initial concept and design through to construction and installation.
Now proudly situated within the public park between Crown Point Road and The Tetley, the library box is stocked with a wide selection of books for readers of all ages. Visitors can browse, borrow and enjoy a book while making the most of the park’s growing range of amenities and green space.
As part of the ongoing activation of Aire Park’s evolving eight-acre public park which will become the UK’s largest new city centre park upon completion, the library box adds another welcoming feature designed to encourage community connection, relaxation and wellbeing. The installation creates a dedicated space where visitors can pause, unwind and immerse themselves in a favourite story.
Colleen Carter, Assistant Marketing and Communications Manager at Aire Park, said: “We’re committed to creating spaces within Aire Park that can be enjoyed by everyone, and it has been fantastic to work alongside the students from Leeds City College to bring this library box to life. From its design and construction through to installation, the students have been central to the project, and we’re delighted to introduce a new focal point for reading, meeting friends and spending time in the park.”
Kinga Wota, Enrichment Officer at Leeds City College, added: “Taking part in projects like this teaches students important life skills that you just can’t get from a textbook, including teamwork, leadership and empathy. It gives them the confidence to tackle real-world challenges and helps them feel truly connected to, and responsible for, their local community.
“Working with the Aire Park team has been a fantastic example of how education and business can collaborate successfully. The team didn’t just provide a space for the project—they actively listened to our students and valued their ideas. This partnership gave our learners a firsthand insight into a major city-centre development and demonstrated how community initiatives and commercial projects can work together to create something meaningful.”
With an exciting programme of summer activity planned, including picnics in the park, weekly street food vendors and the LeedsBID Summer Roadshow, Aire Park continues to establish itself as one of Leeds city centre’s most vibrant destinations. Regular updates on events and activities can be found across Aire Park’s social media channels.