Janine GriffithsA historic former Sikh temple in Chapeltown is set to be transformed into a gym and library after Leeds City Council approved plans to bring the building back into use.
The Grade II-listed building on Chapeltown Road has stood empty since the late 1990s, but will now be given a new purpose following the council’s decision.
The former Union and Congregation Chapel dates back to the 19th century and has served several religious communities throughout its history.
Originally built in 1887 as Newton Park Union Chapel, it was used by Baptist and Congregational worshippers. Part of the site also served as a synagogue.
The building later became a Sikh Gurdwara around 1963, remaining in use until a larger temple was constructed opposite the site in the late 1990s.
Located within the Chapeltown Conservation Area, the historic building also featured in the BBC crime drama Better, which was filmed there in 2022.
The latest plans will see the former place of worship converted into a library and fitness facility, offering new opportunities for community and recreational activities.
Developer Urban Future supported the proposals, arguing that the building needed a new purpose to prevent further deterioration.
In its design report, the developer stated: “The council cannot expect the building to remain vacant and fall into a state of disrepair.”
The approval follows an earlier attempt to transform the building into a dance studio, which was rejected by council planners last year.
However, the latest proposals received the council’s backing, with planning officers recognising the benefits of restoring the historic property.
In their report, officers highlighted how the development would protect the building’s future while creating facilities for public use.
They said: “The proposal would secure a viable and sustainable future use for a Grade II-listed building within the Chapeltown Conservation Area through its conversion to a library and gym and fitness facility.
“The development would deliver community and recreational benefits, improve accessibility and ensure the continued occupation and maintenance of an important heritage asset.”
Full planning permission was granted in a council decision issued on October 19.
The approval marks a new chapter for the former chapel and Gurdwara, allowing a building with more than a century of religious and cultural history to serve a different purpose.
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