Leeds is made up of many districts, each with its unique history, character, and charm. These districts collectively form one of the largest cities in the United Kingdom. Today, we will explore Harehills, a district in East Leeds. Situated on hilly terrain, the area features Banstead Park, which offers stunning views of the city. Learn more about the history and development of Harehills on leeds-future.com.
From Forest to Urban District
In the 19th century, the area now known as Harehills was a forest that bordered Leeds and the village of Chapel Allerton. However, as Leeds grew, development extended into Harehills. In the 1820s, homes were built to escape the overcrowded city centre. Although the original plan called for wide streets and detached houses, the area ultimately became a dense working-class neighbourhood. A tram route further spurred its growth.
By the late 19th century, Harehills had become a bustling community. Harehills Board School opened in 1891, followed by Gipton Board School six years later. Anglican St. Aidan’s Church was built in the 1890s, with a Catholic parish church following 15 years later. Additional churches, including Christ Scientist Church (1927), St. Augustine’s Catholic Church (1937), and St. Cyprian and St. James Anglican Church (projected in 1958), reflected the area’s growing population.
Harehills also became an industrial hub with textile, footwear, and brick factories, as well as steelworks. Montague Burton established the world’s largest textile factory in the 1920s, employing 10,000 workers to produce 3,000 suits weekly.
Harehills in the 20th and 21st Centuries
During the 20th century, Harehills thrived as a lively district. By the 1950s, it boasted three cinemas, an ice rink, and a dance hall. Small shops, restaurants, and pubs, like the famous Fforde Grene pub, became community staples.
In the late 1990s and early 2000s, Harehills saw an influx of migrants, including refugees from Poland, Zimbabwe, Somalia, and Iraq. In 2003-2004, Shah Jalal Mosque was built to serve the growing Muslim community. However, the area faced challenges, including pollution, pest infestations, and frequent arson incidents.
Efforts to regenerate Harehills began in the early 2000s, with Yorkshire Forward granting £100,000 for redevelopment. A children’s centre opened in 2006, and Harehills Lane Shopping Centre received £200,000 for improvements. Banstead Park, spanning 2 hectares, features playgrounds and multi-use sports areas for basketball and football.
Crime in Harehills
Harehills has a long-standing reputation for high crime rates. A 2008 report highlighted frequent shootings, riots, and other crimes, including the sexual assault and murder of a 14-year-old girl.
In 2015, Harehills had the highest unemployment rate in Leeds. By 2020, it ranked as the second-most socio-economically deprived area in the city, with 74.2% of households experiencing deprivation.
Efforts to reduce crime have included youth-focused cultural and sports activities and the establishment of community organisations like the Shantona Women’s Centre, the Bangladeshi Centre, ECHO Centre, Bilal Sports Centre, and CATCH Hovingham Centre. Despite these initiatives, crime persisted. In 2023, the crime rate was 209.85 per 1,000 residents, and in July 2024, riots erupted again, with residents attacking West Yorkshire Police officers and setting vehicles and buses on fire. However, by the end of 2024, police reported a 40% reduction in crime compared to the previous year.
Harehills is one of Leeds’ most diverse districts. Only 23.7% of residents identify as English, with the remainder including Romanians, Roma, Pakistanis, and Asians, among others.
Harehills has a storied history, marked by transformation and challenges. While it may not be Leeds’ most desirable district, it remains an integral part of the city, shaped by its buildings, residents, and struggles.
We hope this article has been informative and has helped you understand Harehills better. How often do you visit Harehills? Share your thoughts with us on social media.