First look inside former The Works skatepark in Leeds which has reopened to host techno event

A former community skatepark in Leeds has reopened as a music venue and will host a techno event next month.

The Works skatepark, based on the Airedale Industrial Estate in Hunslet, opened as a social enterprise to encourage young people to take up exercise.

The Works venue (Kurt Grizz / KurtGrizzdesignsuk)placeholder image
The Works venue (Kurt Grizz / KurtGrizzdesignsuk) | ugc

It shut in January 2019, citing 'circumstances beyond its control' for the closure.

But there's new hope for the once popular hang-out as it reopened in November to host music events, aimed at Leeds' students.

The Works venue (Kurt Grizz / KurtGrizzdesignsuk)placeholder image
The Works venue (Kurt Grizz / KurtGrizzdesignsuk) | ugc

Business and marketing student Harry Unsworth, who has set up events company till? presents, is hosting an event at the venue next month, with an exclusive VIP balcony area and the chance for young Leeds DJs to show off their skills.

Bassel Darwish, of technno powerhouse Solid Grooves, will headline the event alongside Mark Blair.

There are plans for a second room to host up-and-coming DJs in Leeds, supporting local talent.

Harry, 18, said: "This is my first major event and it's something I've dreamed of, I've always had this vision to run my own company.

The Works venue (Kurt Grizz / KurtGrizzdesignsuk)placeholder image
The Works venue (Kurt Grizz / KurtGrizzdesignsuk) | ugc

"The old skatepark has an intimate vibe, giving the people of Leeds the chance to dance with some big names in the tech scene at the moment.

“We’re trying to promote up and coming talent in Leeds and, hopefully, the first event will be a sell-out."

Tickets are on sale for till? presents: Bassel Darwish and Mark Blair at The Works on Saturday, February 29.

Related topics:
Celebrating 135 years of telling Leeds' stories
Follow us
© 2026 Iconic Media Group Ltd. All rights reserved.Cookie SettingsTerms and ConditionsPrivacy notice