‘Deeply disappointed’: Storied Leeds pub set for demolition following council greenlight

A derelict former pub in Leeds has been scheduled for demolition after it was given the green light by council chiefs.

The Sun Inn, in Hunslet, was a revered watering hole for locals with a Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) guide from 1993 describing the inn as ‘a Tetley pub popular with rugby players.’

In 2022, it suffered an arson attack and has since been left in a state of disrepair.

A local councillor has said Leeds City Council’s planning enforcement team will be ending activity at the site and has vowed to “fight hard” to save it.

Coun Paul Wray (Lab & Co-Operative, Hunslet & Riverside Ward) said: “Hunslet has lost far too much of its heritage over the decades, including both listed and non-designated buildings.

“I’m deeply disappointed.

“I have asked senior officers to review the decision to close enforcement and to commission an independent council survey to test the building’s structural soundness for ourselves.”

Residents have shared their thoughts on the proposed demolition of the pub under Coun Wray’s post.

“Same story, different pub,” said James Wardman.

Charles Powell added: “Restore it, the pub deserves to live on. We need our pubs.”

Leeds City Council has confirmed that the building will be knocked down.

A spokesperson for the local authority said: “Demolition will be necessary after a structural survey found that the fire-damaged building cannot be safely repaired.

“The owner concluded that repair is not a safe option. The council has independently reviewed the survey and is satisfied with its findings.

“On that basis, the council does not consider that a further structural survey is necessary, and accepts that the building will need to be demolished."