Left Bank, the Grade II* listed former church on Cardigan Road, has launched an appeal to create an accessible garden to benefit the local community, writes Anne Akers.
The building, now a venue for arts and events for the local community, has been transformed, thanks to the enthusiastic group of trustees and supporters. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said of the outside space.
Thanks to a grants and funds from Wellbeing Trust, Sir George Martin Trust, Leeds Civic Trust and the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government, the driveway and access to the building has been transformed, with parking and improved access.
The work has been carried out by Hyde Park Source, a local environmental charity. Weeds and overgrown bushes have also been removed and turf laid to improve the lawn, all it needs now are plants and trees.
Left Bank has launched a Crowdfunder to raise up to £5,000 to buy established, blossoming trees to attract birds and insects, plants and shrubs for a wildlife habitat and a sculptural timber screen, seating and lighting If £5,000 is raised, there’s the chance that matched funding could be given by Legal and General. Volunteers will help with the planting.
Left Bank aims to make the garden into a small oasis of green in the built-up inner city area of Cardigan Road, somewhere for local residents to enjoy the green space.
The former St Margaret of Antioch Church opened in 1906, closed in 1995 and fell into disrepair.
It was thanks to a group of local residents who loved the building and set up a charity in 2002 that the transformation could begin.
Heritage Lottery Funding enabled repair works to be carried out and heating was installed. It offers a range of community and art events, including afternoon tea, free co-working space and history talks, as well as providing a venue for weddings, parties and festivals. This weekend it hosts the LS6 Beer Festival.
___________