A local history group is angry that that the decorative façade of the Middleton Arms, which was to have been used in the new Aldi store has been lost.
Photo: Deacon Al Henry
Members of Middleton Life local history group are writing to Aldi to express their ‘anger and disappointment’ over the damage to the decorative bricks. They are writing to ask for an explanation as to what happened and how Aldi plans to remedy the situation. They’re concerned that another bit of Middleton’s history – this time from the iconic Middleton Arms – has been lost.
When the pub was demolished in April 2012, Aldi made a commitment to save the decorative brickwork and incorporate it into their new store. The Friends of Middleton Park have reported that the brickwork may have been crushed to use for hard core. Apparently the brick work was too damaged and planners at Leeds City Council agreed to let Aldi not re-use the bricks. It is understood that Aldi are looking to involve local children in creating something in store to mark the former building.
Photo copyright Leeds Library & Information Service www.leodis.net
The Middleton Arms stood for many years on Middleton Park Circus. The landmark building was closed, sold, then burnt down before being demolished to make way for the new Aldi store.
