Demolition Not a Day Too Soon for Harehills Eyesore (Leeds Liberal Democrats)

Leeds Liberal Democrats <info@leedslibdems.org.uk>

Demolition Not a Day Too Soon for Harehills Eyesore

March 15, 2006 1:32 PM

Cllrs Alan Taylor and David Hollingsworth ready to tear down the building

After standing derelict for years, the Compton Arms in Harehills is finally to be bulldozed as part of a Council clean up operation. Liberal Democrat Councillor Alan Taylor (Gipton and Harehills), Chair of Leeds Inner East Area Committee, has led the campaign to demolish the former pub which has been used by drug users and arsonists since being closed down.

Cllr Taylor said "I'm glad that this sorry saga is finally set to come to an end. The Compton Arms was once an important focal point for the local community, but had been in decline for a number of years. Since it was closed down things deteriorated badly, with drug addicts breaking in, and a number of arson attacks taking place."

"Now that this eyesore is to go, the neighbourhood can move forward. I'm looking forward to seeing a new building on the site in the near future that can contribute to the vitality of the community instead of damaging it."

"Every possible effort has been made to help the owners find a suitable new use for the building, but in the end there is no alternative - it has to be demolished. I'm sure everyone living nearby will be relieved to see the building knocked down. It has stood empty for way too long and has become a magnet for crime.

The views in this Press Release are those of the Liberal Democrat Council Group, and not necessarily those of Leeds City Council, its Officers or of the Liberal Democrat Party.