Proposal to designate a conservation area in New Briggate

Leeds City Council want to hear the public's views on the proposal to designate a conservation area in the Grand Quarter area of New Briggate.

The character of the area has been assessed and documented in a draft conservation area appraisal along with a management plan which identifies proposals for enhancement.

If the conservation area is designated it will be a material consideration and be used in the determination of applications for planning permission in the area. Conservation areas aim to safeguard and celebrate special architectural and historic character.

The Grand Quarter Conservation Area is located to the north of the city centre and was the earliest expansion of Leeds beyond its medieval boundaries.

Councillor Richard Lewis, executive member for regeneration, transport and planning, said “I fully support the proposal to designate the Grand Quarter Area as a conservation area. This part of the city centre has a great number of assets, such as the Arcade and the Grand Theatre, so it is right that we look to guide and assist its continued improvement.

“We have already taken positive steps, such as closing Little Merrion Street to traffic, which has enabled this particular area to become a key night-time destination with a vibrant outdoor atmosphere. It is important that we continue taking the opportunity to enable positive steps to be made for this area and a key part of this is listening to the views of local people, who I hope will share their opinions on the proposals with us.”

Centred on the Church of St John the Evangelist, the Grand Quarter area was first developed in the 17th century.

The area has evolved since then with industrial, commercial and cultural uses that continue to shape its character today.

An exhibition with further information along with the draft appraisal and management plain is available at Leeds Central Library on the Headrow Monday 7 August 2017.

A public meeting at St John’s Church, New Briggate is being held on Tuesday 25 July 2017 between 6pm and 7pm for a presentation and a Questions & Answer session.

The draft appraisal/response form can be viewed at Leeds Central Library or on line at www.leeds.gov.uk/council/Pages/Conservation-area-appraisals.aspx.

For further information contact the conservation team at: Sustainable Development Unit, Leeds City Council, Leonardo Building, 2 Rossington Street, Leeds, LS2 8HD. Tel - 0113 2224409. Email – building.conservation@leeds.gov.uk