Iconic bank building in Leeds suburb up for rent

An iconic former bank building is up for let in a popular north Leeds suburb.

Yorkshire Bank have vacated the Chapel Allerton branch which was purpose-built for the company back in the 1920s.

Having never had any other use, it is now being offered to businesses willing to pay £60,000 per year to rent the landmark property.

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The building, made from distinctive Portland limestone, stands on the corner of Harrogate Road and Stainbeck Lane - the suburb's 'Triangle' which is home to numerous bars and cafes.

It is being marketed by local agents Stoneacre, who are hoping the new occupants will lease the site for retail or entertainment use.

Leeds City Council planners have implied that they will support suitable change of use applications from the new owners, who can occupy the building from June onwards.

The 23,00sq.ft site can be re-configured to suit the requirements of a new tenant, and there is potential to expand the first floor space. The paved exterior is also included in the lease, raising the possibility that the new owners could provide an outdoor seating area.

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Yorkshire Bank's former offices, which once stood behind the building, have recently been demolished and a new Aldi supermarket is currently being built on the site.

A statement from Stoneacre Properties said:

"The property is in the centre of Chapel Allerton, a thriving, vibrant suburb of north Leeds that has seen phenomenal and exponential growth in recent years. It enjoys an excellent and eclectic retail mix including speciality food shops, gift shops and boutiques together with a vibrant restaurant, cafe and bar scene."

However, comments on the estate agency's Facebook page suggested that many people believe the rent - which equates to around £5,000 per month - is too high for a small site. Others were concerned that independent businesses would be priced out and that only a large chain would be able to take on the lease.