Leeds University campus gets listed status

In a move that indicates the new Secretary of State, John Penrose, is not afraid to list post-war architecture, DCMS has just approved the listing of the campus of Leeds University –recognising its significance as the largest and most ambitious post-war scheme for a civic university campus. The architects were Chamberlin, Powell and Bon (CPB), the architects of London’s famous Barbican development and the campus was constructed between1964-76. The Alfred Waterhouse buildings which form the early campus are already listed.

The listing not only covers the individual 1960’s buildings but also elevated walkways and paved areas that link the elements of the mega-structure. C20 put the buildings forward for listing in 2008 and has been pressing for a decision.

Apart from all being physically linked, the buildings share a distinct visual unity. Heavily influenced by Le Corbusier, the design for the campus was, in turn, very influential on later UK campus design.

The key structure, the Roger Stevens lecture hall, which was a precursor for the Barbican Theatre and features a distinctive, ribbed surface treatment, has been listed at II*. This high grade is rare for post-war buildings.

The Twentieth Century Society is encouraged by this landmark decision from the new Secretary of State, which indicates a step forward for the preservation of post-war architecture nationally.

ENDS

Notes for editors:
The Twentieth Century Society is a membership organisation which campaigns for the conservation of the best C20th architecture. It was founded in 1979 as the Thirties Society and is now recognised by government and has a statutory role in the planning process. For more details, see our website, www.c20society.org.uk

Buildings put forward by C20 Society.

Senior Common Room – 1964-7
Mathematics Building – 1966
Biology and Biophysics Buildings -1966-70
Lecture Theatre (Roger Stevens Building) including Lecture Theatres, Institute of Communication Studies, ramps, steps, attached high level walkways, pool and surrounds.
– 1971
Undergraduate Library, 1973-5, extended 1996-8
Social Sciences Block – 1974-8
Physics Block – (E.C Stoner Building) 1965-9
Charles Morris Hall – 1964-6 – Not listed
Edward Boyle Library – 1975

For images or more information on the buildings at Leeds University by CPB, please contact Jon Wright, Senior Caseworker, C20 Society on jon.wright@c20society.org.uk or call 0207 250 3857