REGARDING Holbeck Urban Village. I have lived and worked in the Beeston and Holbeck areas, together with a long spell working in the city centre.
I have always taken a keen interest in the changing face of the cityscape and have followed with great interest the articles relating to the Leeds city planners and the various letters to the editor on related subjects.
Whilst there can be differ
ent opinions on the individual planning approval, looking at the broader picture, the future looks quite exciting.
On the south side of the city we have Bridgewater Place, with high-rise living and offices.
Look at the plans for the area which is now being called Holbeck Urban Village, then walk down Water Lane, Holbeck, as I did and visualise what is being created.
Bridgewater Place/Asda was built on an old motor vehicle workshop which I believe was Magnetic Motors.
Visualise what is to become of the Tower works site and the superb buildings planned for modern living and working and what has already been made of the Round Foundry site that also once belonged to the motor trade.
Jewel
When I browsed the HUV website, I was very happy to see an old mill, Midland Mills which is described as Holbeck's jewel in the crown. It stands close to a lifeless car park and car hire company.
The change of use for this old building is dramatic, showing a beautiful glass atrium, offices and 15 two-bed apartments, bringing new life again into this historic building. It was built prior to the Round Foundry in 1793 (anyone got any photos of the old mill in operation?).
I would like to congratulate the Leeds city planners and architects involved in bringing a rebirth to Midland Mills in the near future. I had a splendid day out in Leeds, finishing my tour around HUV with a refreshing half in the local hostelry The Cross Keys.
R FIDDES, Harrogate
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