Leeds Street Closure Persists Amidst Delay in Derelict Building Repair Approval

A historic thoroughfare in Leeds remains inaccessible to vehicles as the local council awaits a determination on its request to undertake critical repairs on dilapidated structures. In August, Leeds City Council submitted an application to the government, seeking authorization to issue an urgent works notice to the proprietor of multiple properties situated on Lower Kirkgate. This notice would empower the authority to carry out necessary structural interventions. Four months later, the council, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, was still awaiting a decision from the secretary of state for Culture, Media and Sport. The relevant government department indicated that it had sought guidance from Historic England and that a resolution would be communicated “in due course”. This situation arises after a former retail establishment on the street partially collapsed in April, leading to the road being shut down for vehicular access for the majority of 2024. Local businesses had previously voiced concerns regarding the safety hazards presented by the state of these buildings. The council stated that it had engaged in efforts to collaborate with City Fusion Ltd, the owner of the affected properties, for over ten years, but had not succeeded in reaching an agreement on a plan to refurbish 83-89 Kirkgate. The authority’s intention was to issue an urgent works notice to the company, which would permit it to undertake emergency repairs and subsequently reclaim the associated expenses, projected to be £700,000, from the firm. A spokesperson for Leeds City Council commented: “We recognise that the ongoing closure of the road and the dilapidated condition of some buildings on Lower Kirkgate is proving frustrating for local businesses and residents.“As a council, we are working hard to find a solution to the issues in the area.” The spokesperson further stated: “Matters relating to historic buildings such as these clearly require careful consideration and the proper use of established procedures by all parties.” The council had previously announced its intention to acquire seven properties on the street from City Fusion Ltd. A study to assess the viability of redeveloping these buildings was underway. The spokesperson concluded: “We thank businesses and residents for their patience and remain fully committed to driving forward the continued regeneration of a street that has already seen many hugely positive changes over the last decade.”