THE NEW group in charge of Yeadon Town Hall has announced an ambitious restoration project for the building.

Restoration 2020 aims to raise £100,000 to restore the internal fabric back to it’s former glory, revealing it’s hidden beauty and elegance.

The Yeadon Town Hall Community Interest Company is planning to complete the work over a two year period.

Jamie Hudson, from the CIC, said Leeds City Council was also completing a scheme of exterior works to restore the ornate facade of the building, including the three clock faces, the 28 intricate gargoyles and decorative lead roof.

The restoration work will see all public entrances, foyers and toilets restored, redecorated and re-carpeted, while the main public toilets will be fully refurbished. The bar area will be reconfigured to reveal the original clock tower ceiling which has been hidden for more than half a century.

Leeds City Council has agreed a 50 year lease to the CIC for a peppercorn rent. Now the group is asking the public to contribute towards the restoration programme.

It is selling plaques which will form a ‘wall of fame’ in the heart of the building. Ranging in price from £150 to £1000 the plaques can be bought by groups, schools, individuals or companies. Visit www.yeadontownhall.co.uk for details.

 Jamie Hudson said: “This is a major milestone in transforming Yeadon Town Hall into a fantastic community asset and entertainment hub.”

He said the CIC was planning to offer more events, including concerts, tribute shows, comedy nights, theatre and cinema.

He stressed: “We are indebted to the incredible work of the ward councillors here in Yeadon, in particular Cllr. Ryk Downes who has campaigned tirelessly for ten years to ensure the Town Hall remains open to serve the community.”

Jenny Thakur, Chairman of Yeadon Town Hall Users Group, which has worked tirelessly to improve the building over the last 15 years said: “Yeadon Town Hall has been the entertainment hub of the locality for many years and now under the control of the CIC the building has a secure and exciting future - to be enjoyed by all who use it.”

Cllr Ryk Downes said: “This is an exciting opportunity for Yeadon Town Hall to continue to serve the people of Yeadon and surrounding areas. This fabulous asset can only benefit from being controlled by the community that knows, loves and respects it.”

A Tree of Lights - Remembrance Event will be held at the Town Hall at 7pm on December 10.

Yorkshires’ Christmas Spectacular will take place from December 12 to December 16. Visit www.yeadontownhall.co.uk for details.

Yeadon Amateur and Operatic Society Carol Concert will take place at 7pm on Friday, December 21. Tickets are available on the door.