Further phase of re-development for historic former Leeds print works

The third phase of Leeds City College's redevelopment of a historic printworks is set to get underway - with the piece de resistance being an ornate glass clad swan.
13 december 2010.
The former Alf Cooke print works, Hunslet Road, Leeds.13 december 2010.
The former Alf Cooke print works, Hunslet Road, Leeds.
13 december 2010. The former Alf Cooke print works, Hunslet Road, Leeds.

A planning application has been submitted to the city council to create a spa and hair salon in the grade II listed building in the Hunslet Road area of the city and also the glass bird feature.

There will also be a lighting system, installed in the roof space of the three storey building, which will shine into a restaurant courtyard below.

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This section of works in the larger hall at the former Alf Cooke printers comes three years after the opening of a £25m first phase.

It was closely followed by a second scheme, both of which led to modern teaching, learning and recreation areas.

Planning documents show that “historically significant” features will be retained, such as the square lead clock, and incorporated with modern building designs and services.

In 1885, Alf Cooke was appointed by Queen Victoria as “Her Majesty’s Colour Printer”.

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In 1894, the entire works was re-built after being destroyed by fire.

It closed down in 2006 and both the old print hall buildings fell into a state of dereliction until the site was acquired by Leeds City College.

In its day the Alf Cooke works made for one of Leeds’ most iconic and historic industrial landmarks.

The college says that “the social and community significance” will be preserved with the building’s new role “as a further education facility welcoming members of the public as well as enrolled students through its doors.”

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