Historic ginnel makes passage to city

A GINNEL in the Farsley area of Leeds has come under the protection of Leeds City Council after being used, according to some estimates, for over 170 years.

The ginnel, which leads from Town Street, next to the Natwest branch, through to School Street, does not appear on the council’s definitive map statement or list of streets, despite its long history and heavy use but local residents say the ginnel has existed since at least 1840.

Efforts made to trace an owner of the land were unsuccessful, so now the council is using its powers to bring the ginnel under its care.

An order will now be issued to bring the ginnel officially under the council’s oversight.

Coun Andrew Carter (Cons, Calverley and Farsley) said yesterday: “I’m amazed that this ginnel has been, essentially, ownerless for so long, given the fact that it’s used so heavily.

“Now we can make sure it’s protected and maintained properly and it may well still be in use in another 170 years.”

Coun Joe Marjoram (Cons, Calverley and Farsley) added yesterday: “I’m delighted that it will come under the official oversight of the council.”