Following on from Architecture Day thread

munchinmac · Post by **munchinmac** » Thu 21 Jun, 2007 12:21 pm

Being quite a new person in Leeds but interested in its architecture and history, can anyone tell me if there is a Leeds equivalent of this? http://www.gbpt.org/doorsopenday/index.htmlIs there a buildings preservation trust (or similiar) and even better, the open day? The one in Glasgow is really good as you get into government and council buildings, churches, synagogues, schools and some private companies allow you in if the building is of significance.I thought that the Architecture Day would have been great but I was rather disappointed in its content.Or do any 'Secret Leed'ers' have enough influence to make suggestions in a place where it might be listened to?Sorry about all the questions but I'm trying to gauge what (and who) is out there.Thanks Mac xxx

Phill_d · Post by **Phill_d** » Thu 21 Jun, 2007 12:37 pm

Leeds has a Heritage day in September. As far as i know the public have never had any input or suggestions as to where they would like to be open. It's usually the same places every year with a few additions or alterations. It's all to do with if the owner is happy to open up to the public & also in this mad day & age of H.S.E if it's safe to do so. I've been in touch with one particular place that is a real gem in regards capturing heritage of our not so distant past. The best kept example of it's kind in England. It's soon to be gutted & lost forever, i had the initial thumbs up for a private small group photo shoot to capture it before it's lost for good only to be over ruled at the last minute by a person in higher authority. I find it hard to understand how people can happily let this type of thing go on the back of skip wagons without recording it properly first. I'm not sure who's the biggest threat to our heritage? The owners of these places or the man in charge of the ball & hammer who will flatten it. I'm getting in touch with Leeds heritage to see if this place can be opened up in September as it would be criminal to loose it this way!!

Post by **tyke bhoy** » Thu 21 Jun, 2007 1:06 pm

The heritage day is promoted by LCC and Leeds Civic Trust http://www.leedscivictrust.org.uk/ (link to heritage days on the left menu).I don't know how much influence either have on making people open up but given some of Phill's views on the men in suits at LCC I don't think he has much faith in them (not disagreeing Phill just an observation on some of your "rants")

Phill_d · Post by **Phill_d** » Thu 21 Jun, 2007 3:14 pm

I wouldn't mind if you did disagree Tykeboy.. If i criticise then i should be able to take it back if it's justified.. I only do it hoping the powers that be maybe change there ideas for the better & give the public what they want. I'll have a look at the link you've posted.. Cheers!!

Post by **tyke bhoy** » Thu 21 Jun, 2007 3:28 pm

Phill to be honest I agree with much/most of your "rants" and I wouldn't call them rants either hence the quotes. They are your opinion and one shared by a lot of Leodians who would like the best for our city.

Phill_d · Post by **Phill_d** » Thu 21 Jun, 2007 3:43 pm

Oh yes i fully understand what your saying Tykeboy. I've just mailed the civic trust a lengthy, polite & detailed e-mail pointing out some things that deffinately should be included in this years open day with good reason. They won't be here next year thats for sure! I suppose it's all too easy to criticise but when you can see some brilliant oppurtunities wasted it makes you wonder..