Have a say on future of former school site in Armley

The dilapidated Leeds City Council-owned building on Whingate Road had stood empty for around ten years before it was demolished last summer.

The building, which was originally Whingate Primary School and later an adult learning centre, had become an eyesore and a target for vandals.

Now Armley residents are being invited to have their say on what happens next at the site.

Local councillors Alison Lowe, Alice Smart and Jim McKenna have called a public meeting tomorrow to give residents the opportunity to air their views.

The meeting will be held from 5.30pm to 7pm on Thursday January 14 at Swallow Hill Community College on Whingate Road.

Coun Lowe (Labour/Armley) said: “This future of this site needs to be decided and we feel very strongly that local people should have every opportunity to help shape what that future may be.

“This meeting is designed to do just that and we want to encourage as many residents as possible to attend, it is important that we hear their views.”

Coun Lowe said suggestions already made for the site include a small park, housing and facilities for a sports club.

Coun Lowe added: “We are hoping to get more ideas about what is possible.”

A report to Leeds City Council last year stated: “Due to the poor condition of the property and as it constitutes a health and safety risk and a nuisance to surrounding residents, it has been decided to demolish the buildings to leave a site suitable for redevelopment.”

West Leeds Family Learning Centre was opened in 1990 by former Leeds West Labour MP John Battle.

It was one of four Leeds City Council-run centres designed to help adults back into education, training and jobs.