Leeds social club could be converted into school under new plans

A former Leeds social club could be transformed into a school for those with special education needs and disabilities (SEND).

Plans have been submitted to transform the vacant West Leeds Sports and Social Club in Armley into a residential facility with space for 20 children. A group, Youth Hubz, which provides services for SEND children have submitted the application.

According to the planning report, they said: "We operate five Ofsted registered homes, each designed to provide a safe, structured, and supportive environment for these young individuals."

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The current site on Redshaw Road has been closed since 2019 and has since been the victim of both vandalism and flytipping. Previously, in February 2023, planning permission was granted to turn the site into flats and offices.

According to the design statement for the new school it would help to meet the needs of children who have challenging emotional behaviours and it would work in partnership with Leeds City Council. It added: "The scheme provides the required internal facilities for educational and care purposes as well as external recreation space suitable for a small school of this nature."

On the ground floor, there would be five classrooms, each dedicated to serving four children. There would also be a dining area, office and sports hall.

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Meanwhile, the two upper floors would feature en-suite children's bedrooms, medical rooms and recreation areas. However, the report stated that the building is currently in a state of disrepair and the roof is currently falling in.

It said: "The existing building is in poor condition following occupation from the previous tenants and has been vacant for some time. The proposed scheme has been carefully designed to be sympathetic to the existing appearance of the building while incorporating newer additions which allow the scheme to work."

This proposal has been supported by the West Leeds Amateur Rugby League Football Club (ARLFC) who are based on the site. When responding to a public consultation, they said: "At West Leeds ARLFC we are at the heart of the community and bring many families into our community Rugby League club.

"This proposed project could enhance our own club, as we have aspirations of running some disability sports programmes."