Leeds heritage is 'at risk' - English Hertage report

Temple Mill holbeck leeds — Under threat - Temple Mill in Holbeck is just one of the buildings on English heritage's 'at risk' list. Picture: Sarah Grice

Historic monuments, buildings and conservation areas in Leeds are at risk of damage and decay.

That's the finding of the 2010 Heritage at Risk report published by English Heritage - the most in-depth study ever undertaken into the state of the region's historic treasures.

Among the buildings highlighted as being 'at risk' in Leeds are the Egpytian-style Temple Mill building in Holbeck, St Mary's Church in Richmond Hill and the first Leeds white cloth hall in Kirkgate.

More than 30 Grade I and II* buildings, 47 scheduled ancient monuments and four historic parks and gardens are at risk of damage and decay in West Yorkshire, according to the report.

Trevor Mitchell, English Heritage Regional Director, said:

"The economic downturn has added to the challenges of finding long term solutions for the buildings on the register, 60% of which we estimate are capable of commercial or residential re-use.

"Of course, this year's register includes many other types of heritage treasures facing uncertain futures. So we must be careful to prioritise our action, with a particular concern for the region's great industrial buildings, such as the textile mills.

"Some truly inspiring work is already being done and to a large extent the size of the Heritage at Risk register reflects the astonishing richness of the region's historic environment. But it's an asset we must work hard to protect or lose forever."

See below for full list of Leeds 'at risk' buildings, monuments and conservation areas - click on the link for more details.