Leeds’ legendary Tetley building is getting a massive makeover

The Tetley building is one of Leeds’ most iconic landmarks. The art deco space was once where Carlsberg-Tetley’s beer (not to be confused with Tetley teas) was brewed but more recently it has functioned as a contemporary art gallery. 

But now it’s been revealed that the gallery – operated by Project Space Leeds since 2013 – is set to shut its doors for good on December 17 as its lease on the building comes to an end. Since the announcement, locals have been eagerly waiting to see what the next chapter for the 92-year-old building will hold. And now we know. 

Yesterday, Vastint UK, which bought the property from Carlsberg, revealed the proposed plan for The Tetley. The art deco facade of the building will be maintained while the basement and ground floor will become food, drink and event hubs alongside 13,000 square feet of office space, roof terraces and a cellar bar. 

The proposals are part of a bigger masterplan to transform the Aire Park district on the south bank of Leeds into a ‘safe, accessible, vibrant public space’. 

Simon Schofield of Vastinct UK said: ‘The Tetley is an iconic building within Leeds and we’re excited to finally reveal our plans for its future.

‘As custodians of this important piece of the city’s history, we have been working hard with our architects Supervene and Enjoy Design, Leeds City Council and others to look not just at how we preserve this beautiful building but continue its evolution and ensure it remains at the heart of both Aire Park and Leeds’ south bank for another 100 years.’

A planning application is expected to be submitted in early 2024. You can learn more about what is in store for the Tetley building here. 

Time Out Leeds

The Tetley’s gallery closure is a big loss for the contemporary art scene in Leeds, but there are still a bunch of artsy hubs in and around the city worth visiting – just take a look at our list of the best ones. And while you’re here why don’t you peruse our other roundups of Leeds’ best bits, like the best things to do, its most delicious restaurants and its vibiest bars.