One of the first single-storey factories in the UK, Temple Works was built in 1838 based on the Egyptian Revival designs of engineer James Coombe.
When it was built, it was said that Temple Works was the biggest single room in the world; its 240 horsepower double-beam engine taking up the majority of the space inside. Now, after years of sitting empty, Temple Works is being revived once more after being granted £1 million in funding from the government’s Culture Recovery Fund in 2022.
Find out more about Temple Works’ unusual history by taking a tour of the building below.
13. Temple Works
CEG bought the building and gave an estimate of £35 million for the restoration works in June 2019, with the building forming part of plans for regeneration of the South Bank of Leeds. Pictured is development director, Jonathan Kenny, owners of the building. | James Hardisty Photo: James Hardisty
14. Temple Works
Temple Works, also known as Temple Mills, was recognised with a blue plaque from Leeds Civic Trust in September 2018. | Tony Johnson Photo: Tony Johnson
15. Temple Works
The Government has announced £10 million will be spent on revamping the building to create a new home for the British Library. | LCC Photo: LCC
16. Temple Works
Leeds City Council leader, Coun James Lewis, said: “We were very pleased to welcome the Deputy Prime Minister to Temple Works... so she could see first-hand what this remarkable heritage asset is all about." | LCC Photo: LCC
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