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Gay News: Local businessman Paul Giles has said he would like to give Leicester gay community ownership of an area in the city centre.
By: Nigel Robinson
Gay village would give gay community ownership
Gay village would give gay community ownership
A gay village is being planned for Leicester
The area he suggests is part of Belgrave Gate, where he owns two gay bars, the Village and Quebec.
“The plan is still very much in the pipeline but it would be fantastic to have a gay district in Leicester,” he told the Leicester Mercury.
"Most other cities have [a gay quarter] and it's about time we did, too.
"It brings in people from out of town and is great for the city's economy.
"It also promotes safety if there's an area of city which is completely gay-friendly."
The plan has also been welcomed by Leicester councillor Patrick Kitterick who said:
"Cities have used gay villages to regenerate areas of their city centres.
"The Manchester village near Piccadilly Station [Canal Street] is a very good example of this.”
Mr Giles is also hoping that investors will put money into his company, Quebec Leisure, and buy shares in the new gay village.
"It would be aimed at the gay community, but it would by no means be exclusively for gay people," he told the newspaper.
"Having shares in the area would give a sense of ownership over the area and I would like every gay person in Leicester to own at least one."
Leicester Pride will take place this year on 4 September. For a comprehensive guide to all this year’s UK Gay Prides visit Pride Life’s UK Gay Prides Guide
