Pudsey Park's iconic visitor centre is set to be transformed under exciting plans to find its new purpose.

Leeds City Council has put the former West Leeds Country Park Visitor Centre – which enchanted young children for years through its wildlife displays – up for lease.

It can be transformed into a completely new business venture – leading one councillor to suggest her vision of a café, yoga or Tai Chi studio or ‘living classroom’ experience.

The building – which will spark nostalgic memories of its enclosures, aviaries and aquariums - was closed to the public in February 2021.

Leeds City Council said: “We are now exploring new opportunities for the building located in a prime public location in the heart of Pudsey historic market town. We are inviting expressions of interest from parties willing to explore a long-term sustainable use for the building.”

Councillor Trish Smith (Pudsey, Conservative) said: “I see the centre becoming a real focal point for the park, with lots of scope for many uses including a small cafe, an indoor play area, maybe yoga or Thai Chi, perhaps putting meditation & mental health wellness at the heart.

“I’d love to see something come forward that’s really fun and positive that’s inclusive for the whole community - the sky really is the limit.

“With the glasshouse, I’d love to see Pudsey in Bloom take that on in partnership with another of our wonderful groups. It would be great to see our young people learning about flora and fauna in there - what an amazing setting it would make for a living classroom.

“We’re so blessed to have such great parks and green spaces in our ward, and with the right vision we can create something wonderful and inspiring for generations to come.

“So many of our elderly residents have lovely childhood memories of Pudsey Park, let’s create more for future generations.”

Cllr Smith added: “It’s excellent news that the West Leeds Visitors Centre has finally been opened up for Expressions of Interest. It’s been a long time coming and the Assets Team have worked tirelessly to get to this point despite the obstacles they were presented with along the way.”

The tenant will be responsible for paying all outgoings related to their part of the premises, including but not limited to utility bills, rates, waste collection and general running costs. 

The window for the expression of interest will close on Friday, October 28, 2022.

Anyone who is interested in sharing their vision should email assetmanagement@leeds.gov.uk

Emails should be addressed for the attention of Neil Young (Strategic Asset Management) and a proposal form will be forwarded.

Interest or submissions received after the closing date will not be considered, Leeds City Council said.

The single-story building features indoor and outdoor animal enclosures, welfare rooms, a learning/meeting space, and toilets.

There’s small areas of outdoor space to the rear and side.