Leeds City Council has approved a plan for a £1.5 million investment to improve transport links between the city centre and Leeds Dock, in the hope that it will help growth and development in the local area.

The proposals were put forward by the site’s latest owners, Allied London, which purchased the 150-year lease in 2012. Ideas include subsidised water taxis, shuttle buses and improved cycleways.

Allied London is expected to meet most of the cost of these improvements, although the council will provide funding for aspects that will benefit the wider community.

A council report attributes Leeds Dock’s lack of visitors to poor transport links for its location on the south-eastern edge of the city centre. It suggested that investing in transport would “significantly help to realise the city’s vision for South Bank and have a significant and positive impact on the local economy”.