Engine works offices to become live music venue

Plans to turn the offices of a former steam locomotive manufacturer into a live music and events venue have been approved.

Leeds City Council granted permission to convert The Old Engine Works in Jack Lane, Hunslet, earlier this week.

The Grade II-listed building, which used to be part of Manning Wardle's Boyne Engine Works, is believed to date back to the 1800s.

Developers stated there would be no material alterations to the existing building.

The application, prepared on behalf of Hunslet Heritage, said plans for the site would include an events space with a café and hot food takeaway, the Local Democracy Service reports.

“It is expected that the building will cater for live music events, conferencing, weddings, exercise classes, local group meetings as well as catering for events," a report said.

“There is recognised demand locally for a new events venue in this location to serve the inner Leeds population, with on-site parking for visitors from further afield.”

The two-storey red brick building was used as a canteen and dining room from the late 1950s to 1960s and more recently as office space.

The council granted permission, stating the scheme would not harm the appearance of the building.

A council report said: “The impact on the listed building would be slight and the use will help secure the long-term condition of the building.”

The new venue could open as late as 06:00 Thursday to Saturday and 02:00 Sunday to Wednesday for live music events.

A noise assessment found that music would not be heard from nearby homes, the planning report said and noobjections from nearby households were received.

The report said: “It is considered that the proposed change of use to events space, and café and hot-food takeaway would be acceptable in this industrial area.”

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