New road closures at major Leeds park to prevent damage to grounds

Part of Elm Tree Walk, which runs through the parkland, will be completely closed to motor vehicle traffic.

Two overnight closures will also be introduced at the entry points to the park from Colton Road and New Temple Gate daily from 10pm to 6am.

The restrictions are a trial that will run for 18 months with the hope that they will be made permanent if the trial is successful.

A consultation found that 72 per cent of respondents were in favour of the measures.

Councillor James Gibson, Leeds City Council’s executive member for environment, said: “The last few years Temple Newsam has sadly seen a significant increase in nuisance driving and anti-social behaviour, something which has not only caused substantial damage to the park's grounds, Temple Newsam House and adjacent farm buildings but has also impacted the nearby community, raising safety concerns among local residents and park visitors.

“This has also resulted in high costs for ongoing maintenance and damage repairs.

“For all of these reasons we feel it is important to find a long-term solution, and that is why we are now trialling these road closures, which we are hoping will protect the grounds and house as well as improve the safety of the community.”

Find out more at Elm Walk Road Closure and Estate Road Access FAQs.

ENDS