Heritage scheme breathes life into old Leeds buildings

The first property to be completed in the Chapeltown Townscape Heritage Initiative was unveiled yesterday.

Work to Miss Browns Coffee House has included a new roof, sash windows, restoration of the front door, and York paving stones and heritage-style railings at the front.

Coffee shop owner Amanda Brown said: “I have worked with local skilled tradesmen to renovate 152 Chapeltown Road to provide Miss Browns Coffee House, a new local facility for local residents, workers and visitors to the area.

“The THI funding has enabled us to renovate the outside of the building and improve its presence in Chapeltown. By using local people the grant money has also remained in the local economy and provides a permanent example of work carried out to a very high standard by and for the local community.”

The Chapeltown scheme is targeting three key blocks of Victorian and Edwardian properties on Chapeltown Road.

The scheme is funded by Leeds Council, the Heritage Lottery Fund and private money from owners of businesses benefiting from the work.