End of the road for former Leeds pub

Notice was given for the demolition of the former White Bear Pub, in Dewsbury Road, Tingley, in June after site owners were granted permission by Leeds City Council.

And the demolition of the site started this month.

It follows years of uncertainty for the former pub.

Fast food giant McDonald’s had a fifth application to build a drive-through restaurant refused last year.

The failed applications culminated in a high-profile public inquiry into the plans, which were eventually dismissed by a Government minister.

It came after a strong backlash in the community over highways and noise concerns that they claimed would arise should a restaurant replace the former pub.

Contractor Kayedem arrived earlier this month to tear down the building, which has been derelict for around five years.

Councillors had raised concerns about the site falling into disrepair, and it was repeatedly targeted by vandals and occupied by squatters.

The site will now be cleared for redevelopment.

Kayedem also supervised the demolition of another eyesore, Allerton House, off Harrogate Road, in Chapel Allerton, in January this year.

The former office block was once occupied by Yorkshire Bank and was cleared to make way for a new Aldi supermarket.

The White Bear pub was first built in the 1930s, and subsequently altered in the 1970s.

Applicant Simon Conway notified Leeds City Council of plans to demolish the site in March.