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Fears as Leeds Temple Works put up for auction

Ken Grey/Leeds Civic Society Temple Works LeedsKen Grey/Leeds Civic Society
Temple Works, in Marshall Street, is due to be sold at auction

Heritage campaigners have expressed concern for the future of "one of the most important historical buildings in Leeds" after it was put up for sale.

Temple Works, in Marshall Street, is due to be sold at auction next month, with no reserve price.

The Grade I listed building had been earmarked for renovation by Burberry but the plans were dropped.

Leeds Civic Trust Director Martin Hamilton said he was treating news of the sale "with some trepidation".

Leeds Civic Society Engraving of Temple Works, leedsLeeds Civic Society
Temple Works is described as being of architectural and historical significance

"This is considered by many - including English Heritage and Leeds City Council - to be one of the most important historical buildings in Leeds. Its architectural and historical significance are significant," he said.

"We only hope that, if it is sold, the new owner will be able to bring the necessary imagination - and investment - to the table, to restore this magnificent mill and bring it back into use."

Construction of Temple Works began in 1836 with a facade based on the Temple of Horus at Edfu, Egypt.

Leeds Civic Society Temple Works LeedsLeeds Civic Society
The building is described as being in a state of disrepair

The property, described by estate agents as a combination of office space, storage and workshops, is due to be sold at auction on 7 December.

Burberry's chief finance officer Julie Brown said it had "let the option lapse" to develop the building.

The company said it owned land adjacent to Temple Works and was "continuing to think through our plans" for a factory.