Leeds city centre pub in Grade-II listed building set for major upgrade after reopening

A historic pub in Leeds city centre is set for refurbishment works after it was re-opened to customers.

Scaffolding has been fixed around the Grade II-listed Old Red Lion, a Samuel Smith’s establishment on Meadow Lane.

The Tadcaster-based brewery applied to Leeds City Council for listed building consent for work on the building.

The traditional pub was closed for several years but was re-opened on August 26.

A design report said maintenance was needed on timber windows, external doors and building render to preserve the site.

It said: “It is proposed that the works will be completed by an appropriately experienced contractor familiar with working on listed buildings, adopting a minimal intervention approach when dealing with specific elements of repair.”

The building, near the Adelphi pub and Aire Park redevelopment scheme, is listed by Historic England as a public house and shop, dating back to the early 19th century.

The heritage organisation said small rooms flanked the entrance passage to the main bar, which was refitted in the late 1980s.

A listed building application is being considered by council planners and is out for consultation until October 12.

The design report said: “The Old Red Lion is a Grade II-listed building.

“It is believed that all of the proposed works are traditional and sympathetic in nature and will not have a detrimental effect on the appearance of the building.”

The pub’s management said the venue was still open during the facelift, serving drinks until 11pm, Monday-Saturday and 10.30pm on Sundays.

A Facebook post said: “We are having a little work done outside. Don’t worry, we are still open for business.”