Open Day Planned For Historic Stank Hall Barn

The Friends of Stank Hall Barn are planning an open day in June to build support for the renovation of the ancient landmark building.

The Friends met last night (Wednesday) to take the next step in their campaign to get the 15th century barn renovated and back in use. They are planning to hold an open day on site to let members of the public see inside the historic building and to explain the importance of the buildings and the wider site. There will also be a work party to clear up the site and make it looked “loved”.

The meeting also heard Jason Green, from Leeds City Council, explain about the work that been going on behind the scenes. He explained that the barn has not been forgotten and is a priority for the Council. He also explained the constraints they have in finding a solution for the site:

• The buildings (Stank Hall, New Hall and Stank Hall Barn) are all listed
• The site is a Scheduled Ancient Monument an therefore of national interest
• The site is in the Green Belt which restricts development
• The site has a bridleway (right of way) running through it

In 2009 the cost of repairs was estimated at £1.25m. The Council had looked at selling land for housebuilding to raise the funds, but this was unlikely to be viable in the immediate future. The are working towards a temporary solution to the theft of tiles from the site whilst a long term plan for the site is worked out.

The group now has its own website, email and Twitter account. A Facebook page will follow and they will meet again on Wednesday 1st May.