Leeds Wapentake bar next to collapsed building saved from closure

A popular bar and cafe which was facing closure following work on a collapsed building near the blighted trade has been saved by an investor.

Wapentake, on Kirkgate, Leeds, is just a few doors down from the derelict shop building, which collapsed in April.

Leeds City Council closed the road while the area was made safe and the bar’s owners said a week ago that it had “fallen on hard times”.

However, Wapentake said it was now able to stay open thanks to investment from pub group Inglenook Inns.

Sharing the news on social media, he said: “Despite recent hardships and the dramatic crash on the road, Little Piece Of Yorkshire will remain open! We survive!

“We’re delighted to share that thanks to the support of our incredible community and the dedicated efforts of Ignition, Wap, which has led the revival of Kirkgate – Leeds’ oldest street – will continue to serve you all.”

The pub quoted the managing director of the Inglenook Group as saying: “As a local boy I am proud to be part of saving this much-loved pub.

“It is so important to revitalize our cities and keep investment moving forward. Please join us in celebrating the re-opening of the Wapentake!”

Both parties have been contacted for more information about the announcement.

Leeds City Council previously said the traffic restrictions were put in place “to help protect the safety of the public until work on the collapsed building is completed”.

A spokesman said it “continues to consider all options to facilitate a long-term restoration and regeneration solution for both the collapsed building – which has been in a state of disrepair for several years – and other properties on Kirkgate, belonging to the same owner.’

Kirkgate is one of Leeds’ oldest streets and is home to The White Cloth Hall, which opened in 1711.

It’s also currently home to several independent businesses, including the Doghouse Bar and Bagel Shop, Blue Collar Barbering and Jam Rock Indian Restaurant.