Following a deputation and petition submitted to full council by local residents, Leeds City Council's Executive Board decided on Wednesday to enter into negotiations with Leeds Girls' High School to acquire land on its former site. The areas in question are the Ford House Garden and a stretch of land south of Victoria Road, which Councillors hope to turn into public open spaces to benefit the local community.
The Board is also committed to conserving all protected pitches on the site as public areas, and this will be at the top of the agenda in any discussions regarding the potential future usage of other parts of the site.
"I, for one, am very pleased that Council leaders are looking into acquiring this land to keep it for public use. It is vital that we protect our valuable green spaces within the city".
"I am happy to see the Council listening to the views of local residents and working to benefit the local community. It is an issue that many residents in my ward feel strongly about and I am confident that we can work together to reach an outcome that is agreeable to all involved".