These photos should evoke memories for those who lived in the Leek Street flats. PICS: YPN

These photos should evoke memories for those who lived in the Leek Street flats. PICS: YPN

Changing Leeds - The rise and fall of Hunslet's Leek Street flats

They were the flats built to replace a large area of terraced housing in south Leeds.

By Andrew Hutchinson

Published 2nd Apr 2020, 06:00 GMT

Hunslet Grange - also known as Leek Street flats - were built in 1968 were arranged in blocks of six or seven storeys, with overhead walkways connecting the blocks. They proved popular but soon problems with damp and condensation began to develop and the heating systems proved inadequate. Demolished in 1983 these rarely seen photos showcase their rise and fall. Did you live at the flats back in the day? CHANGING LEEDS: The Headrow | Boar Lane | Briggate | Leeds Inner Ring Road | Leeds International Pool LOVE LEEDS? LOVE NOSTALGIA? Join Leeds Retro on facebook

The flats, shown here when they first opened in 1968, initially proved very popular with residents.

1. Leek Street flats

The flats, shown here when they first opened in 1968, initially proved very popular with residents.

The construction company hailed the development as innovative and modern, as it used new building methods and materials.

2. Leek Street flats

The construction company hailed the development as innovative and modern, as it used new building methods and materials.

Child play in the shadow of Leek Street flats in August 1971.

3. Leek Street flats

Child play in the shadow of Leek Street flats in August 1971.

4. Leek Street flats

Many residents moved from overcrowded terraced houses with shared outside toilets, to brand new flats with mod cons.

It was the first housing project in the city to use 'neat' North Sea gas.

5. Leek Street flats

It was the first housing project in the city to use 'neat' North Sea gas.

The new flats, pictured in March 1970, contrast with the ruins of a disused church in Joseph Street off Hunslet Road.

6. Leek Street flats

The new flats, pictured in March 1970, contrast with the ruins of a disused church in Joseph Street off Hunslet Road.

Hunslet Leeds Leeds International Pool

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