While our skyline is constantly evolving with new glass towers, many of our historic and prominent buildings remain in a state of neglect, blighting an otherwise beautiful city.
Despite significant investment flowing into the regeneration of the city, many run-down sites earmarked for restoration have seen progress stall, while others have watched planning applications fall through, or sites sit vacant for decades.
Many of these structures, from incredible Gothic churches to vaunted Victorian wings, have been granted Listed status, but while this protects them from the wrecking ball, it does not guarantee maintenance.
As a result, several have become overrun with rot or fallen into a state of ruin while waiting for a viable future.
From abandoned pubs in Hunslet to the holes in the ground on Vicar Lane, these are the eyesores I and (I’m almost certain) other residents in the city would love to see tackled over the next 12 months
1. Lower Kirkgate (city centre)
With the building having collapsed in 2024, and work expected to take place this year after a delay to the September 2025 start, many local shop owners and residents hope the restoration begins sooner rather than later. | James Hardisty
2. New Pavilion (Morley)
The New Pavilion in Morley is one of the town’s most prominent landmarks, standing at the southern end of Queen Street. Though it has been derelict since around 2005, its history is a colourful timeline of Morley’s social life over the last century. | Google Street Images
3. The Brotherton Wing at LGI (city centre)
A new planning application has recently been submitted to tidy up the long-neglected Brotherton Wing. The proposed work includes cleaning the exterior stonework, repairing structural damage, and installing new windows and a canopy. | Google Street View
4. Eldon Court (City Centre)
Located near the Brotherton Wing, Eldon Court has stood vacant since its emergency evacuation in January 2023 over fire safety concerns. There has been a new proposal to redevelop the site, which would see the existing cluster flats converted into self-contained studio apartments if approved. | Google Street View
5. Newton Park Union Church (Pottertown)
Built in the late 19th century (around 1887), this former church was designed in a high Gothic style, featuring a distinctive tall spire that remains a focal point of the north Leeds skyline. It served as a Gurdwara until the new Sikh Temple was built opposite the road, and is now disused. | YEP
6. The Old Red Lion (Whinmoor)
McDonald's has submitted a third attempt to transform the derelict Old Red Lion in Whinmoor into a drive-thru restaurant, following a previous refusal in April 2025. While the plans may be controversial, our readers have long called for work to tidy up the abandoned boozer. Photo: Google