Microbrewery seeks aid to buy old pub

There have been few interested parties, according to local councillors, and residents are concerned that it could become abandoned and fall into disrepair.

Labour Councillor Elizabeth Nash is supporting a plan by Leeds Brewery, a local microbrewery, to buy the pub and keep it open.

But to let this happen Leeds Brewery would need help in the form of a loan from Leeds Council, says Coun Nash.

The City and Hunslet councillor said: "The Garden Gate is a much loved, well known, beautiful and historic public house in Leeds and it would be a great loss if it were to close. The proposal by Leeds Brewery to take it over and keep it open is a great idea. I would urge Leeds City Council to do all it can to assist Leeds Brewery in acquiring the Garden Gate.

"In the current economic climate this scheme makes sense and the council should be helping people where it can and fostering an entrepreneurial spirit among its residents."