Royal Park School facing eviction

Tagged as: community education free_spaces privatisation repression
Neighbourhoods: hyde_park leeds ls6

Residents of Royal Park School facing eviction - Case to be heard at Leeds Magistrates Court Monday 23rd, 1000h

The team of residents who have taken occupation in the neglected Royal Park School with the hope of reclaiming it for the community may be ordered to leave this Monday by Leeds City Council. If the court rules to evict the residents they could be forced to leave by the next day.

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The struggle to save the school has harnessed the support of numerous local figures including Rita Samuels, former Head teacher of school. It’s an issue which has united the frustrated community, overlooked by the local council for too long. A public meeting this Wednesday was attended by well over 100 LS6 residents, the vast majority of whom are behind the occupation. If the court rules to evict the residents they could be forced to leave by the next day.

PROMISES BROKEN

Dissatisfied locals took matters into their own hands when promises made by the council were consistently broken. When Royal Park School was closed in 2004, despite huge public opposition, concerned residents were assured that it would be maintained as a community asset. Instead has been allowed to fall into disrepair. With the help of qualified professionals and a team of volunteers they have been carrying out essential maintenance on the disused school with a view to turning it into a community resource. Despite this support, the local council has initiated proceedings to have the residents evicted from the building.

The current occupation is a last resort by the community to prevent the building from becoming demolished or sold to a private developer.

The residents have already held successful community events in the building including-

  • open days
  • jumble sales
  • arts and crafts workshops
  • circus classes for children and young people

 

The occupants are asking everyone who feels that this building should be kept for the community use to come down and show their support at 9.45am on Monday, 23rd November at Leeds County Court.