As tipped by the Enquirer last year the firm beat rivals Laing O’Rourke and Vinci for the first phase of the big shopping centre scheme.

Initial enabling works on the site have begun with main construction scheduled to start later this Spring.

The first phase of the regeneration scheme will create up to 1,000 construction opportunities in the region.

A careers fair will be organised in early April for individuals wanting to find out more about jobs and training opportunities. All vacancies will be advertised via the Council’s Employment and Skills Service.

Victoria Gate’s 400,000 sq ft first phase will consist of a five-floor John Lewis store with a striking facade and two-street arcade (below) for up to 40 stores and restaurants.

McAlpine will also build a multi-storey car park for up to 800 cars, design with twisted fins to create an illusion of a woven fabric, drawing on Leeds’ textile heritage.

Ultimately, the £600m Victoria Gate scheme will accommodate just under 1.2m sq ft of retail and leisure space. It is estimated 6,000 construction workers will be employed through the two construction phases.

The second phase will include additional retail for major high street brands, leisure space, restaurants and a food court.

Richard McAlpine of Sir Robert McAlpine said: “We have an established track record of working with Hammerson on outstanding retail-led developments and look forward to building on our relationship as we work together to deliver this exciting new project.”