Armley Town Street: People urged to ‘behave responsibly’ on 4 July

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July 1, 2020

Extra police will be drafted on to Armley Town Street to help prevent any anti-social behaviour when pubs re-open on Saturday, 4 July.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said pubs, cafes and restaurants can re-open for the first time since lockdown began in March.

Leeds West MP Rachel Reeves today met with the Armley neighbourhood policing team and the council’s Licensing Department to talk about issues on Town Street. Speaking on social media, she encouraged people to ‘behave responsibly’ and said:

“Although we all welcome the return of some sort of normality, I urge people to behave responsibly. The virus is still out there in the community and people are still dying. Let’s not undo the good work we have done together to protect the NHS and save lives.
“I have also urged the police to ensure that anti-social behaviour is dealt with to keep us safe, and they have agreed with my request for extra police presence in Armley on Saturday.
“Let’s show the best of Armley this weekend. The police work hard to protect us, and while we all want people to enjoy the easing of the lockdown restrictions, let’s make sure we look out for one another and stay safe. We don’t want anti-social behaviour in Armley or anywhere in our city.”

The original Facebook post from May 26, 2015

Earlier this week Ms Reeves was put under the spotlight when a Facebook post of five years ago about launching a strategy to improve Town Street came under fire. Dozens of comments claiming the area still faced massive issues and questioned what progress had been made.

Tracey Lazenby said:

“The original post was from five years ago. Has got worse. Myself and my husband were walking through the other Saturday morning (9.30-ish) and there was a woman who was clearly offering herself for cash.”

Mandy Varley added:

“I used to love going Christmas shopping on Town Street with my mum, as a child it was so full of delight. To me now it’s a no-go zone. I had to move as my car kept getting smashed up, but I will always hold fond memories of Armley. I would definitely start visiting Town Street again if it felt safer and more welcoming as I only live a mile or so away, please make this place proud again.”

Others pointed to the recent closure of a local butchers and the Card Factory shop due to lockdown. Boots is also set to close its pharmacy in August.

In March – just as lockdown started – the Dispatch looked in depth at the issues facing Armley Town Street.

Shoppers and traders seemed to agree progress has been made, but they said more still needs to be done.

The area is poised to apply for something called ‘business improvement district’ status (BID for short), a government-backed scheme which is already up and running in hundreds of other towns and city centres across the country, including Leeds and Otley.

BIDs work by getting businesses within a defined area to pay a small percentage (typically one or two per cent) of their rates into a pot.

The programme lasts for five years and the money collected is then used to fund improvements in the town, according to priorities identified by those paying in.

Pudsey Produce and Craft Market returns as lockdown restrictions ease

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westleedslife

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June 30, 2020

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pudsey produce market main — Pudsey Market. Photo: John Baron/Westleedsdispatch.com

Popular Pudsey Produce and Craft Market will be returning to Pudsey’s Market Place this weekend for the first time since early March.

The monthly market has been cancelled over the past few months due to the Coronavirus pandemic – but this Sunday (5 July 2020) will see the event return, featuring local independent traders.

Posting on Facebook, event organiser Dawn Seary said her focus was on the safety of traders and customers alike:

“We’re putting in place measures to be COVID-19 secure by preventing overcrowding, enforcing social distancing, providing handwashing stations, introducing a one-way system as well as other measures intended to keep you safe!
“We trust that you’ll adhere to this and stay safe; help us to help you.”

The event will run from 9am-1pm.

The market is run by local volunteers. It was established in September 2018 with the aim of rejuvenating the market, attracting more stall holders to all market days and promoting the venue to more people, with the aim of creating a more busy and vibrant community space.

Please write to your MP to help save independent community news

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westleedslife

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June 30, 2020

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Local independent news providers like West Leeds Dispatch are among the most trusted source of news in the media.

However, more than 95 per cent of them have received zero support from the Government since the start of the lockdown.

While £35m has been allocated to the ‘newspaper industry’ in order to save lives by providing essential information to the public, and support the press, this money is not reaching the local independent news sector.

We are backing the Independent Community News Network‘s (ICNN) campaign calling on the Government to create a bespoke funding agreement to support local independent news providers.

The ask is direct and bold, but deliberately unclear. The purpose is to flood inboxes and pressure ministers to review the existing policy. ICNN’s ultimate aim is to negotiate a not insignificant portion of the current £35m subsidy made available to the ‘newspaper industry’.

If you value your West Leeds Dispatch and rely on it for accurate, essential, and up-to-date information about the Coronavirus pandemic, fill in your postcode below to write to your MP now.

Sign the petition here.

Armley: Purse appeal over attempted rape in Gotts Park

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westleedslife

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June 30, 2020

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Police investigating a serious sex assault in Gotts Park in Armley are appealing to find the victim’s purse.

The victim, aged in her twenties, was attacked by a man as she walked through Gotts Park, in Armley, at about 11pm on Saturday (27 June).

She managed to get away and ran out of the park onto Rombalds Grove where she was helped by two women, who have now been identified and spoken to by officers.

During the incident, the victim lost her purse, which was a black Primark purse with a gold bow on it and a gold zip with a tassel.

Searches have been carried out in the park but the purse has not been recovered and police suspect it may have been taken by the attacker and later discarded.

Detective Inspector James Entwistle, of Leeds District CID, said:

“We are continuing to support the victim and are carrying out extensive enquiries as part of our ongoing efforts to identify the suspect.
“The victim lost her purse during the attack and it’s possible it was taken by the attacker. It is quite a distinctive item and we are keen to hear from anyone who has found such a purse dumped in the area or anywhere else.
“We are treating this incident very seriously and would like to hear from anyone who witnessed anything suspicious around the time of the attack or who has any other information that could assist the investigation.
“We are also liaising with our colleagues on the local neighbourhood policing team who have increased their patrols of the area to reassure the community following this incident.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Leeds District CID via 101 quoting crime reference 13200321901 or online here. Information can also be given anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Could e-scooters be the future of transport in Leeds?

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westleedslife

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June 29, 2020

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Rush hour in Leeds could soon have a new addition to the streams of motorists, cyclists and pedestrians coming in and out of the city each day, writes Richard Beecham.

According to a document made public by a regional transport body, West Yorkshire could soon be taking advantages of trials for an e-scooter rental service.

The Government is keen to look into ideas for greener, and more effective modes of transport in cities, and wants to find out whether the motorised two-wheel vehicle could be a solution.

Unlike the traditional moped an e-scooter takes the classic pedal scooter design and adds an electric engine to one or both of the wheels.

Prices online typically range between £200 and £1,000, although it is currently illegal to ride them on UK roads and pavements.

A document from West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA), a regional ‘super council’ which looks after large transport and infrastructure projects, taking advantage of a government trial to legalise rental e-scooters could focus on both the effect on the environment, as well as whether it could help lead a post-Covid economic recovery. It read:

“The Combined Authority is currently working with interested council partners and Department for Transport (DfT) to help develop proposals for e-scooter trials in West Yorkshire.
“The trials would examine the impact of rental e-scooters on other road users, vulnerable groups and determine the impact that they have on use of other modes. The trials will also examine the contribution that e-scooters might make to the economic recovery from COVID-19.
“Any proposals developed for submission to DfT will be circulated to Transport Committee members for comment and approval before the end of June. DfT have suggested that they wish to see schemes on the ground in August 2020.”

It is not yet known what the terms of such a trial would be, or when it would take place, but according to the DfT, it is legislating ‘urgently’ on the issue.

A statement from the department on its website reads:

“E-scooters could be a fast and clean way to travel that eases the burden on the transport network and allows for social distancing.
“Before we can decide whether to fully legalise them and determine the rules that should apply, we need to understand their impacts. That means gathering evidence on their safety, how people use them, whether the potential benefits can be realised, and how to manage the downsides.
“Therefore, we will run controlled trials, with local areas, starting trials much sooner and in many more places. We are consulting on proposed regulations that would allow trials to begin and set the rules e-scooter users must follow.”

It added the legalisation would only apply only to e-scooters legally used as part of trials, for the duration of the trials. E-scooters not used as part of the trials will remain illegal on the road, in cycle lanes and tracks, and on pavements

Comment: Boxing clever – a brilliant way to alleviate lockdown boredom in Armley

By

westleedslife

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June 29, 2020

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From sponsored head shaves to children’s book giveaways, food parcel deliveries to befriending schemes – there has been so much in West Leeds to shout about since lockdown started! writes John Baron.

One that particularly caught my eye in recent weeks which has had no publicity, but richly deserves some, is an innovative scheme helping older people and youngsters in Armley alleviate boredom and be creative during lockdown.

It highlights people power at its best and shows community spirit is alive and well in West Leeds.

Mini-playboxes, filled with goodies to spark creativity, were the brainchild of Seagulls Paint co-founder Cat Hyde after being inspired by a similar project in East Leeds.

She worked up the model, joining forces with folk from the LS14 Trust, Fall into Place and Playbox Leeds.

A picture containing indoor, cluttered, messy, sitting

Description automatically generated — Getting creative with a Mini-Playbox in Armley

Dedicated volunteers, headed by Armley resident Judi Telford, packed, checked and delivered the family boxes to people’s homes (while maintaining social distancing, of course).

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Description automatically generated — Ready for delivery

Volunteers reported joyful doorstep scenes and social media quickly filled with photos as families explored the boxes of delights.

A person holding a baby

Description automatically generated — Some of the arty creations from Armley youngsters

But the project didn’t stop there. The second round of creative boxes were designed to tackle social isolation and engage and inspire older adults, many of whom have been shielding.

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The Armley Covid hub New Wortley Community Centre and Armley Helping Hands have both helped distribute some of the boxes, adding to the sense of a ‘we’re all in this together’ spirit.

One of the older adults who received a box said:

“It is like an Aladdin’s Cave… lots to keep me quiet for hours.”

A person standing in front of a building

Description automatically generated — Puzzle books and creative things aimed at adults

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The boxes have been delivered everywhere from houses and bungalows, right to the top floor of the tallest high-rise flats.

One woman, who has been really struggling during lockdown, was inspired to become more active and follow one of the recipes to make some buns. A relatively simple task, but one which really increased that person’s sense of wellbeing at a difficult time.

There are lots of similar stories as a result of this project.

It’s been great to see such positive response from the doorstep to a project which was orchestrated by an inspirational West Leeds woman and delivered by local volunteers. People power at its best, you might say.

Reporting for West Leeds Dispatch sometimes means telling news which isn’t good or is bogged down by politics – but local people have done West Leeds proud during lockdown and it’s an absolute privilege to shine a light on people-powered schemes like this. Well done all!

Funds for the project were allocated by councillors on the Inner West Community Committee, as part of Armley Ward’s Covid-19 response for residents.

Haven’t received your box yet? It may be in the pipeline, but you can contact Cat via info@seagullsreuse.org.uk.

£192k contract awarded for roofing work at Farsley Farfield Primary

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westleedslife

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June 29, 2020

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Holbeck-based roofing company HH Hanson Ltd has been awarded a £192,280 contract to carry out roofing work at Farsley Farfield Primary School.

The scheme is part of a city-wide package of school maintenance improvements. Work on the roof is due to be carried out over the summer period.

The decision comes a year after £102,000 was spent on the school building for priority maintenance work.

The council’s decision to accept HH Hanson’s tender can be read here.

Pick up a piece of litter next time you’re at Leeds & Liverpool Canal, charity urges

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westleedslife

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June 29, 2020

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leeds liverpool canal towpath 1 — Canal trek. Photo: Mark Stevenson

West Leeds residents are being asked to pick up a piece of litter and help stop plastic reaching the ocean via the Leeds and Liverpool Canal.

Waterways and wellbeing charity Canal & River Trust, which relies on its army of volunteers to help clear the waterways of plastic and litter, has had to put volunteering activity on hold since mid-March due to coronavirus.

At the same time, the need for people to ‘stay local’ has seen an increase in the number of people using their nearby towpath – and bringing the litter and plastic they bring with them.

Since the launch of its Plastics Challenge, volunteers nationally had given more than 10,000 hours a month to tackle the problem, and a survey showed that plastics and litter in and around the Trust’s waterways had dropped by 30% since last year.

But it is now feared that much of those environmental gains could have been lost during the coronavirus lockdown period.

Peter Birch, national environmental policy advisor at Canal & River Trust, said:

“Our canals are great on-the-doorstep places for people to enjoy, however the unintended consequence is that they can be highways to the ocean taking 500,000 pieces of carelessly discarded plastic along our waterways and out to sea each year.
“Thanks to the efforts of individual visitors, local communities and volunteers, we had seen great gains prior to lockdown, however this trend could have reversed as our volunteers have been required to stay away and the use of towpaths has increased in many urban residential areas as people have enjoyed using towpaths for their daily exercise.
“But sadly, the problem with discarded plastics and litter remains an issue for us and every year enough plastic to fill 20,000 bin bags are washed from our canals and rivers out into the ocean.”
“If everyone who visits one of our canals or rivers picks up just one piece of plastic, they’d be clear within a year.”

People are being urged to follow Government guidelines on social distancing and washing their hands. To ensure everyone takes part in the challenge safely, The Trust has created a handy guide which can be downloaded from the Canal & River Trust website.

To find out how you can join the Canal & River Trust’s Plastics Challenge, visit www.canalrivertrust.org.uk/plastic or follow us on social media @CanalRiverTrust #PlasticsChallenge.

Improvements to historic Bankhouse Pub receive green light

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westleedslife

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June 29, 2020

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Plans to improve iconic Pudsey pub The Bankhouse have been approved by council planners.

The traditional pub and restaurant closed suddenly in February, leaving owners Star Pubs and Bars to find new managers.

The pub has yet to re-open, with all pubs closed since March due to the coronavirus pandemic.

But plans have been approved by Leeds Council to give the pub a new lease of life, with a new metal and mesh entrance trellis arch for the beer garden, 10 fixed festoon lighting posts and replacement rear entrance doors.

There are also alterations planned to a side window and a new fence to cover the cellar cooling ventilation units at the front.

A statement accompanying the plans said:

“The proposed works will help soften and enhance the external appearance of the pub from the roadside and signify change by introducing the festoon lighting and new archway.
“The kitchen extract louvre will be on the side of the property not seen from the road, furthermore [it] will be powder coated to match the window frame, thus masking this addition.”

The pub is on Bankhouse Lane, on the edge of the historic Moravian settlement of Fulneck in Pudsey.

Hollybush Primary headteacher is first West Leeds ‘local hero’

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westleedslife

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June 29, 2020

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Leeds West MP Rachel Reeves has launched an initiative to recognise and celebrate local people who have gone the extra mile during these past few months, writes Jo Fiddes.

“I was contacted by the site manager of Hollybush Primary School who asked if I could tweet about the head teacher to recognise all the work she is doing,” said Ms Reeves

“That brought to mind all the articles I have been reading and sharing about people in Leeds West who have used this opportunity to reach out and support others.

“From sponsored head shaves to children’s book giveaways, food parcel deliveries to befriending schemes. There has been so much going on – I’m really proud to represent such a generous community and I wanted to mark it in some way.”

Ms Reeves decided to launch the West Leeds Local Hero Award. The first recipient is the head teacher of Hollybush Primary, Briony Robertson, who was the inspiration for the award for her incredible work during lockdown.

Ms Robertson was nominated by Hollybush Primary site manager Rana Singh, who said:

“Our head has been fantastic. I’ve seen her in tears at times but she has kept us all going with her full support.”

Ms Reeves added:

“We launched this appeal on Facebook only a few days ago and asked people to spread the word to friends and family.
“We have already had several nominations but are open to more suggestions. If you know a local hero you think deserves a shout out, please contact my office on rachel.reeves.mp@parliament.uk and let us know why you think they deserve this recognition.”

Gotts Park: Police conduct extensive enquiries after serious sexual attack on woman in 20s

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westleedslife

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June 28, 2020

0

Detectives are today hunting a sex attacker who tried to rape a woman in Armley late last night.

The victim – a woman in her 20s – was assaulted by an unknown male as she was walking through Gotts Park at 11pm last night (Saturday, 27 June.)

The woman managed to run away and was helped by two unknown females.

A scene is currently in place around parts of Armley Park and Gotts Park while forensic examination takes place.

Detective Inspector James Entwistle of Leeds District CID said:
“Our investigation is at an early stage but we are treating this incident as very serious.
“The victim is understandably shaken by what’s happened and suffered minor injuries in the incident. She is now being supported by specially trained officers.
“We are carrying out extensive enquiries to find the suspect.
“We would appeal directly to the two women who helped the victim to come forward and anyone else who was in the Gotts Park area at the time and who may have seen anything suspicious to come forward.
“We appreciate that this incident will cause some concern in the community and we are working closely with our neighbourhood policing team to provide reassurance in the area.”

Anyone who has any information about this incident is asked to contact police on 101 or use the live chat facility quoting crime reference 13200321901. Information can also be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Police seize large haul of cannabis plants in Armley

By

westleedslife

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June 28, 2020

1

More than 230 cannabis plants have been seized from an address in the Armley area.

A man has been charged with the production of cannabis and remanded in custody.

If you have any information in relation to drugs offences, contact West Yorkshire Police via:

Telephone (non-emergency) – 101
Email – InnerWest@westyorkshire.pnn.police.uk