Leeds City Council secures future of Kirkstall nature reserve

Leeds City Council has agreed to purchase the Redcote Lane site in Kirkstall from National Grid for £1. The 32-acre site, which was part of a former power station, is currently used as a nature reserve by The Yorkshire Wildlife Trust.

Nicola Slater, portfolio manager for National Grid said: “National Grid has a nationwide programme to reduce land holdings that do not support its core business activities. As part of this programme, we are delighted to be able to gift this land to Leeds City Council for a nominal sum so it can remain in public use for many generations to come.”

Councillor Debra Coupar, deputy leader of the council and executive member of resources at Leeds City Council said: “This nominal purchase will secure the future of the nature reserve, saving a well-used and loved green space for local people to continue to enjoy in the future. I would like to thank National Grid for agreeing to gift the land directly to us and the Council looks forward to the continued use of the site as a nature reserve.”

Notes to editors:

The purchased land includes an urban green Corridor running along the River Aire between Armley and Kirkstall. As well as Armley beach, a network of footpaths and wild flower meadows.