Six ‘outdated’ tower blocks to be demolished

Members of Leeds City Council’s executive board are set to approve plans to rehouse residents and demolish six high rise buildings, across Leeds.

The council says the tower blocks, initially constructed in the 1960s, have “exceeded their original design life”, and would require significant investment for them to be brought up to an appropriate standard to have a future, as part of the council’s housing estate.

Although the blocks remain safe at present, in light of financial pressures on the council and the significant cost of delivering remedial work, the decision to demolish the six sites is due to be approved.

The future use and development of the sites will be subject to further review, with the council aiming to facilitate the delivery of affordable housing on the sites.

Consultation has taken place with residents in Bailey Towers, Brookland Towers and Ramshead Heights in Seacroft, Leafield Towers in Moortown, and Raynville Court and Raynville Grange in Armley.

A full report on the planned demolitions will be discussed at Leeds City Council’s executive board on 18 October.

Councillor Jess Lennox, Leeds City Council’s executive member for housing, said: “The demolition of the tower blocks is an important step towards future proofing the council’s housing stock, ensuring we meet our commitment to delivering good quality and affordable homes for residents.

“However, we understand the impact that this will have on our residents across the sites, and I would like to extend my thanks for their constructive engagement with the council so far.

“We’ve undertaken extensive and proactive consultation with all of our impacted residents and will continue to do so as we are absolutely committed to ensuring any disruption is minimal.”