Report aims to alleviate Pudsey wetland plan odour concerns

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October 7, 2025

Hough Side Road wetland — An artist's impression of the new wetland area off Hough Side Road, Pudsey.

A Pudsey councillor has welcomed Yorkshire Water’s efforts to demonstrate a new multi-million pound wetland scheme won’t create found odours for nearby residents.

Last month Cllr Simon Seary (Cons) raised concerns around what he claimed was a lack of investigation into possible odours emitting from the Hough Side road scheme, which would treat storm wastewater, improve water quality and reduce storm overflows into Pudsey Beck.

Cllr Seary was concerned about how the risk of odour had been classed as “low”, without any monitoring or modelling data.

But Cllr Seary says he has received an update from Leeds City Council’s Planning Department, following further discussions with Yorkshire Water.

“Yorkshire Water have confirmed they are commissioning a new technical report to demonstrate that odour should not be a concern, and will produce a detailed pack outlining how the site will be operated and monitored,” he said.

“This will form part of the planning approval, meaning any future issues can be fully enforced if necessary.

“Once this report is received and reviewed, I’m happy for the application to be determined by planning officers under delegated powers rather than requiring a full Plans Panel decision – provided all the safeguards are in place.

“This scheme will also create an area residents can enjoy, while improving the environment and helping manage surface water in a more natural way.”

Yorkshire Water said last month they had ‘conducted all assessments and preliminary tests that a construction of this type requires’.

Their statement said: “According to these assessments, there is low risk of any odour from the site, and Environmental Health did not raise any concerns on our initial planning submission. Additionally, we already have two integrated construction wetlands – at Clifton and Clayton West – and have not experienced any issues with odour at these sites.”

Yorkshire Water has also offered to meet Cllr Seary at one of their existing wetland sites in the near future to discuss some of his concerns.

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Burley Village Green to close for eight months

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October 7, 2025

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Work to reduce the threat of wastewater backing up into streets is set to begin in Burley later this month.

Yorkshire Water is undertaking a programme of works in West Leeds to reduce the risk of wastewater backing up into streets, homes or businesses after heavy or prolonged rainfall.

This will involve the installation of large underground storage tanks, four of which will be sited in Kirkstall and Burley.

Work on the Burley Village Green project is due to begin on Monday, 20 October until June next year.

Kirkstall councillors Fiona Venner, Hannah Bithell and Andy Rontree have welcomed the work, and have asked for signage to be put up to warn people that the area will be closed to the public.

“We have asked for details of any impact on trees at the Burley Village Green site,” they said in a statement.

“We are particularly concerned that some of the standard trees recently planted here by our Parks Department are likely to be under threat. YW have undertaken to replace any trees that have to be removed, but of course it’s best if trees are left in situ whenever that is possible.

“YW advise that they have no plans to remove any trees from the western edge of the Green (the side facing The Village Street) and the wooded bank on the eastern side is entirely outside the boundary of their site.

“Concern has been expressed about the proposal to cover the vent stack with a ‘poster drum.’ Burley Village Green is part of the Burley Conservation Area, and we are not convinced that it’s appropriate to facilitate flyposting by putting a poster drum here. YW will be required to obtain planning permission for the vent stack, and for any structure covering it.

“As YW’s plans provide for much of Burley Village Green to be closed to the public for approximately eight months, we have asked them whether public access to any part of the site could maintained for part of that time. They are considering whether part of the southern end of the site can be re-opened before the works are completed.”

Work at Kirkstall Educational Cricket Club has already started.

A new entrance to the works area has been created next to the existing gate to accommodate large vehicles.

Councillors say they have been assured by the project team that there is no need to remove any trees from the KECC site, although some hedging and low-level vegetation may need to be cut back along the eastern boundary.

Similar projects on Spen Lane and Vesper Road are scheduled to begin in February and March 2026 respectively.

Contact Yorkshire Water’s Customer Experience Team for further details on 0344 848 1099.

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Highways officers over-rule objections to Burley/Kirkstall parking scheme

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October 7, 2025

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Traffic management measures in Kirkstall and Burley have been signed off, after council officers over-ruled two objections to part of the scheme.

The objections concerns that double yellow lines on Hesketh Road could displace parking to side roads, and the displacement of cars on St Ann’s Avenue.

The measures are part of a wider package of double yellow lines in both Burley and Kirkstall, first reported by WLD last September.

Council highways officers overruled concerns about Hesketh Road, saying spaces are available on neighbouring streets. A report stated: “Whilst the proposed restrictions will displace a small number of parked vehicles into the wider area, vehicles currently parked here are obstructing larger vehicles and preventing refuse collections from taking place.”

On St Ann’s Avenue, officers argued: “Site visits demonstrate that parking close to the junction of St Ann’s Avenue and Knowle Terrace/The Village Street restricts visibility, increasing the potential for collisions.

“Whilst the proposed restrictions will displace a small number of parked vehicles into the wider area, vehicles currently parking close to the junction obstruct sightlines for those exiting St Ann’s Avenue and are the minimum required to ensure adequate sightlines.”

Officers concluded: “The objections received are to two sites where No Waiting at Any Time restrictions are designed to remove indiscriminate and obstructive parking on junctions so that sightlines and access for larger vehicles, such as refuse wagons or emergency services, can be improved.

“If the restrictions are not introduced, then parking may continue to occur on the junctions and therefore larger vehicles may have issues accessing the areas where restrictions are proposed.”

The scheme will now be implemented as advertised.

The full council report over-ruling the objections can be read here.

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College group recognised for special educational needs excellence

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October 7, 2025

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Bill Jones, Deputy CEO of Luminate Education Group

The group behind the new £14 million Pudsey Sixth Form College has been named SEND Centre for Excellence.

Luminate Education Group has been appointed as a Centre for Excellence in Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) by the Education and Training Foundation.

Operating across West and North Yorkshire, Luminate is one of the largest post-16 education providers in the country, serving around 30,000 learners each year across seven institutions including Leeds City College, Harrogate College and Keighley College

Post-16 SEND provision plays a critical role in ensuring that young people and adults with additional needs can engage with education, develop independence, and transition confidently into adult life. Inclusive and accessible post-16 provision for learners with additional needs is vital for tackling disadvantage, addressing skills gaps, and creating pathways that transform learners’ lives.

Alongside inclusive mainstream education, Luminate colleges also deliver a wide range of specialist programmes for learners with SEND, including bespoke provision, supported internships, and inclusive pathways into employment.

Bill Jones, Deputy CEO of Luminate Education Group, said: “We are proud to be recognised as a Centre for Excellence in SEND, not just as validation of the inclusive culture we’ve built across our group, but because of the opportunity this gives us to share insights across the sector.

“This partnership with the Education and Training Foundation gives us the chance to support others, contribute to national improvement, and continue to put inclusion at the centre of everything we do.”

As a Centre of Excellence, the Yorkshire-based education provider will support leaders, managers and practitioners across the further education sector to place learners with SEND at the heart of their provision. Luminate will deliver CPD seminars, host national peer learning networks and convene employer-led events, each designed to build inclusive practice across further education.

The Centre for Excellence in SEND programme is funded by the Education and Training Foundation and offers free, expert support to providers across the sector.

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Pudsey cyclist’s fundraiser nets £6,640

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October 7, 2025

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Pudsey cyclist Tim Devereux has completed his 3,431-mile ride to raise funds for Medical Aid for Palestinians.

Starting on 1 January, he has been riding riding about 12 miles each day around West Yorkshire. 3,431 is the distance from Pudsey to Gaza.

Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP) works for the health and dignity of Palestinians living under occupation and as refugees. Despite the appalling conditions in Gaza, they still provide immediate medical aid to those in great need.

Tim has ridden every day but two, covering an average of 12.4 miles each day. He has used a variety of bikes, eight of his, three borrowed, and one hired. The mechanical
problems include at least six punctures, a broken chain, a broken carrier, and a new rear
wheel rim and spokes to cure persistent spoke breakages.

Tim said: “It has been important for me that I have been able to do something this year, rather than just impotently observe the heart-rending news from Gaza.

“The support I have received has been magnificent – from family and friends; from people I’ve met on the Leeds/Liverpool canal towpath; from people who know me from social media; and from complete strangers – all contributing to help MAP. My very sincere thanks!

“I also must thank my dear wife Teresa, who has put up with my daily absences, and the jobs not done in the house and garden!

“Donations so far, £6,640.72 with Gift Aid – so the ride has raised much more than my
previous fundraising efforts. Admittedly, I have ridden a great deal further, and taken a lot
longer! While no single day has been anything like as hard as some on those previous
rides, just getting out every day has been a challenge.”

Mr Devereux’s JustGiving page is still open for donations here.

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Vinyl and craft market at Horsforth’s Old Kings Arms

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October 7, 2025

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Horsforth record fair — Carla Prater (left) and husband David Prater from Frame The Wall. Photo: Sam Gillinder

By Sam Gillinder

The Old Kings Arms, on Town Street in Horsforth, were proud to hold a vinyl and craft market.

Several outlets were selling their goods. Vinyl Whistle and Vinyl Genie were present for collectors of music in the physical form of vinyl records. The music on offer was vast. All sorts of genres were available.

Oscar Jennings and his mother Laura Jennings. Photo: Sam Gillinder

Simon Hodges of Plan B records provided some rare examples of vinyl, dance music from the 1990’s, amongst other things, was available from his stall.

The event was organised by Richard Heald and Lyndsey Acaster and there was more to offer than just music.

Richard Heald, set up his stall selling his items of photography. You can find more information here.

Frame The Wall, a business run by Carla Prater and her husband David, were selling their prints. They specialise in taking prints from the past and restoring them to their “former glory” for anyone who wants to add some vintage artwork to their home. They will set up again in various local places before the end of the year. More information here.

Oscar Jennings, an eleven year old kid was selling his 3D prints made from a bioplastic called polylactic acid (PLA) which he manufactured in his kitchen using the equipment which was bought for him as a christmas present by his mother Laura Jennings.

The fair was followed by performances from DJ enthusiasts on the equipment provided by the Old Kings Arms.

They plan to hold regular open decks sessions. They will host this regularly to encourage people to show their skills of mixing music on vinyl turntables. This has become a lost art with the emergence of modern equipment.

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Podcast: Saving Swinnow Community Centre

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October 6, 2025

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Our latest ‘Wild West’ podcast sees Michelle Storm and Jean Hollings look at a new era at a much-loved West Leeds community centre.

The latest episode is brought to you from Swinnow Community Centre – where Michelle chats to Lucy Munton, Lesley Jackson and Maddy Staveley about how they saved this much loved community space and about all the activities and events that are hosted there for all ages to enjoy!

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In photos: Bramley and Kirkstall sunshine and then Storm Amy

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October 6, 2025

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Photographer Susan Tellum captures sunshine in Bramley and Kirkstall – and then the wind and rain of Storm Amy.

“The river and goit look nicely full,” notes Susan.

Here’s a slideshow of her photos:

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Bishop of Kirkstall calls for ‘positive patriotism’

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October 6, 2025

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Organisers of protests outside migrant hotels have been urged to put megaphones and placards aside and join talks aimed at building bridges between communities.

The Rt Revd Arun Arora, Bishop of Kirkstall and one of the Church of England’s lead bishops on racial justice, said the church’s role is not only to “unashamedly and unapologetically” speak against the racist violence and abuse aimed at minority communities, but to help facilitate listening and conversation between opposing groups.

Bishop Arun was speaking at a UK Minority Ethnic clergy and ordinands gathering in Methodist Central Hall in London organised by the Church of England’s Racial Justice Unit and attended by more than 150 people from across the country.

He said that not all those who take part in the demonstrations are racist, and there is a need to listen to the voices of people taking part who feel ignored and are struggling to pay their bills, while speaking up against the ‘exploitative’ voices of people who suggest it is the fault of migrants, he told a conference for ethnic minority clergy and ordinands.

He urged the Church of England to ‘embrace’ St George’s Day next year and ‘celebrate a positive patriotism’ rooted in Gospel values and the love of God for all.

Bishop Arun said: “Let me encourage you to embrace that day. To own it, to celebrate it, to reclaim it. To celebrate a positive patriotism rooted in Gospel values.

“A positive patriotism that enables a bold, welcoming, confident English voice which celebrates the love of God for all and His Church, a love which speaks of Jesus Christ and which seeks to serve all throughout this green and pleasant land.

“A positive patriotism which is available to all and can be embraced by all.”

Warning against dehumanising opponents, Bishop Arun said there needed to be a way of becoming ‘not enemies’ but opponents on different sides who can disagree well.

He said he had already put this into practice – offering cup cakes and prayers to protesters outside a hotel housing asylum seekers while he was attending a counter protest in Leeds – and also contacting the organiser of the demonstrations in the city and meeting him for a meal.

Following the meal, he said there had been an agreement that they would bring six people from each side and bring them together for private meetings in one of the Diocese of Leeds churches.

Calling on protesters to explore ‘conversation and listening’ rather than ‘placards and megaphones’ he said: “Today I would invite every protest co-ordinator up and down the country to go beyond protest to meaningful engagement and find a way forward that enables us to work together for the common good.

“I would say to them contact your local priest or bishop. Let us meet together. Let us find common ground.”

The Bishop of Kirkstall, Arun Arora, was consecrated on Friday, July 15 2022 at York Minster.

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Bramley teen wins at London O2 Thai boxing show

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October 6, 2025

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1000092504 — Cole with Andy Howson and Joe Craven.

By James Bovington

Bramley’s champion child Thai boxer Cole Chapman travelled to London’s O2 arena and won his fight on the capital’s HITMAN show organised by fellow Bad Company fighter Liam Harrison.

“It’s a magnificent achievement for him,” said dad Nick. “Cole’s young, he’s just turned 13 but wasn’t daunted by any of it.

“In fact, he thrives on pressure and loved being in the spotlight in front of thousands at what’s become a major national sports venue. Cole is the current HITMAN champion having won the title at 34kg back in the spring and this past weekend was such a great experience for him.”

Cole looks up to Bad Company champion fighter Joe Craven. Cole put on a solid performance against a strong previously undefeated opponent from a London gym. The boys were matched at 35kg and Cole won by split decision having scored particularly highly with quality kicks on the later rounds.

“I’m looking forward to the next HITMAN event in Leeds on 15 November,” said Cole. “Before that we’ve got the first selection day for Team England. That’s in Knutsford on 25 October. I’m keen to be chosen and compete abroad again next summer. I won the bronze in Italy last June so obviously I want to beat that and hopefully win gold.”

Nick Chapman thanked the coaches from Bad Company and especially Joe, Richard, Lisa and Andy Howson for the training, mentoring and encouragement for Cole. He added: “I’d urge any parent to enrol their child for a few trial sessions and see how it goes.”

Individuals or companies who are potential sponsors for Cole should contact Nick by e-mail Nickchapman1@live.com or Facebook Messenger Nick Chapman.

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Storm Amy fails to dampen Horsforth Farmers’ Market birthday celebrations

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October 6, 2025

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By Lara King

Shoppers flocked to Horsforth Farmers’ Market on Saturday (4 October) and toasted the
market’s 13th birthday with drinks, cakes and general joy!

The inclement weather, brought on by Storm Amy, failed to put people off, although it meant the market moved from its usual spot in the grounds of St Margaret’s School to inside beautiful St Margaret’s Church.

The market welcomed its usual array of stall holders, selling everything from bakery items to Indian food, pasta, fish and even marshmallows. Music was provided by the Joy Choir and Horsforth Music Centre, there were drawing activities for the children, and a free tombola from Fairtrade Horsforth.

At 11am there was a pause for speeches from Duncan Stow, Market Manager, and
Councillor Gill Garvani, Chair of Horsforth Town Council, and presentations of cheques for
local charities.

Joy Choir hit the right notes at Horsforth Farmers’ Market. Photo: Lara King

This was followed by delicious free cakes, provided by stallholder Headingley Country Markets, and non-alcoholic sparkling wine, to round off the festivities.

Duncan Stow reflected on the market’s success: “A few of us from Horsforth Churches Together had the idea to do something that brought the community together and supported local businesses.

“We’ve been delighted how it has flourished, and we’re so grateful to the local community for their support over the last 13 years.

“It’s also been a pleasure to support local businesses and help them thrive. Most of our
producers are from within a 30-mile radius, and it’s lovely to see their continued success.

“Slow Rise Bakery, now based on New Road Side, had a stall with us in their early days, and went on to establish premises in the area. It gives businesses a chance to experiment and see what works, while shoppers can sample an exciting range of local produce.”

Indoor stalls at St Margaret’s Church. Photo: Lara King

The market, a community run not-for-profit venture, runs on the first Saturday of every
month, apart from January, 9am to 12.30pm. There are usually 21 stall holders and it occupies two adjacent spots in the car parks of St Margaret’s School, Town Street, Horsforth.

Regular market goer Daniel Reddington said: “We try to come every month. I love the bread, samosas and freshly brewed coffee and my daughter loves the games that are on. It’s always a really nice atmosphere.”

The final markets of 2025 are on 1 November and 6 December. For more information go to
www.horsforthfarmersmarket.co.uk.

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Children’s Day announced at Farsley Literature Festival

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October 6, 2025

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Danielle-Brown-Photo-scaled — Farsley-bound: Danielle Brown MBE, Paralympic Gold Medallist.

Farsley Lit Fest has announced it will be hosting an exciting Children’s Day during half-term later this month.

On Tuesday, 28 October, hosted at Farsley’s Old Woollen, there will be three children’s author workshops, taking place between 11am and 3pm.

The hands-on workshops will be delivered by local authors and will include crafting, illustrating and story-writing.

Farsley Lit Fest is organised by Truman Books in conjunction with The Old Woollen.

Kat Harrison, Events and Marketing Manager at Truman Books said: “Children’s Day offers a fantastic opportunity for children to engage with books and authors.

“The interactive workshops are designed to help foster creativity, imagination and a love of reading in children. The chance to hear personally from authors, and perhaps buy one of their books for them to sign is magical and memorable.

“The day aims to encourage all the family to take hold of the joy of reading and discover new things whilst spending quality time together over the school holidays.”

Each workshop lasts an hour and costs £2 per child, with accompanying adults joining for free. Attendees are welcome to go to one, two or all three of the workshops. Age recommendations have been added to each event but all the workshops are suitable for all the family and each will make for a fun-filled half-term activity.

Workshops

11am – A Fabulously Fun Look at Collecting Things with BETHAN WOOLVIN

Perfect for 3-7 Year Olds / Creative Craft / Fun Story

An exciting, interactive workshop with the author of ‘These are my Rocks’; all about strange collections and oddities from around the world.

12.30pm – Design a Graphic Novel with PENELOPE O’NEILL

Perfect for 6-9 Year Olds / Draw-along / Interactive

Create a comic book hero & map out a comic book strip story with the fantastic author and illustrator of ‘The Floofs’. Show off your creative skills and learn new ones.

2pm – Shoot for the Stars – Build Your Confidence with Paralympic Gold Medallist Danielle Brown

Perfect for children aged 8–12 / Inspiring athletes / Overcoming obstacles

Join Danielle Brown MBE at this fun, interactive event all about believing in yourself. You’ll explore what makes you feel strong and capable through creative and confidence-boosting activities including storywriting.

More details here.