Leeds Civic Trust objects to proposals for “The Tetley” Building
Proposed changes to the building risk erasing the identity of this iconic building, says Leeds Civic Trust.
Commenting on the proposals Leeds Civic Trust Director Martin Hamilton said:
“Proposals to remove many original features including wooden panelling, doors and fireplaces are entirely inappropriate.”
He continued
“The proposed two storey extension, which replaces the existing one storey structure which is believed to have been built at the same time as the original building, will dominate the existing building in a way that we cannot accept.”
He added
“We are not anti-development and accept that the building requires an upgrade, but Aire Park is a huge site, and it should be possible to retain the heart and soul of the last remaining remnant of the site’s brewing past. A sensitive and minimalist approach is needed”
“It was regrettable that it was not possible to retain the previous gallery use and we would ask the owners to think carefully about how they can retain a permanent cultural offer within this iconic building, given its social and cultural significance.”
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Leeds Civic Trust Planning Committee
“The Leeds Civic Trust Planning Committee has considered the above planning application for partial demolition, refurbishment, extensions and change of uses (drawings dated 17th May).
The Trust wishes to object to the current proposals.
The Planning Committee recognised that, while the building was a ‘non-designated heritage asset’, it was of considerable local significance in its setting, design and past uses as the principal office building of the Tetley Brewery.
It’s setting on Hunslet Road, historically the main approach road from Leeds city centre over the bridge across the River Aire to Hunslet and beyond, is highly significant.
As a result, the proposed two storey extension was considered to be detrimental to the views of the building from that approach.
The two-storey extension also results in the demolition of the original one-storey extension of the building which is described as the ‘outrigger’ in the Heritage Statement as being of ‘medium significance’ (page 5). The Planning Committee considered that its significance outweighed any justification for its demolition in the proposals.
The Planning Committee supported many of the other concerns expressed by the LCC Design and Conservation Teams including the relationship between the east facing extension and the adjoining children’s play area, the materials and setting back of the roof plant extension, and the replacement of the original sash windows.
While welcoming the retention of the Entrance Hall with the War Memorial and Art Deco stair and lift decoration, and the ‘Board Room’ on the 2nd floor, the Committee also had strongly shared concerns with the loss of other interior features which are part of the historic floor plans including small, panelled rooms, some with fireplaces. More details are required to fully address their significance.
As a result, the Planning Committee, had many concerns overall with the proposed setting, design and interior changes which had a detrimental impact on its architectural, historical communal and cultural value.
In conclusion, the Trust objected to the Planning Application as currently proposed.
