The Travellers site at Kidacre Street near Crown Point retail park in Hunslet is currently closed for redevelopment work.
Once reopened, in 6-9 months time, it will contain 8 pitches (up from the current 5), each with modular utility blocks. The Council will now be able to charge rents and Council Tax from the residents, as at Cottingley Springs.
The site remains temporary, with a 10 year licence in place – because it’s directly on the proposed route of the High Speed Rail (HS2) line, which is due to open in Leeds in 2033.
An alternative site nearby has already been earmarked if HS2 goes ahead as proposed, and the current redevelopment work has factored in the likely move: all the new utility blocks are modular, so will be moved to the alternative site if need be.
The Council have also stated that they are confident that all current costs will be recouped from the HS2 fund at that time.
