The Kaiser Chiefs were inspired by the town Menston when writing Highroyds.
The namesake High Royds, was a mental health unit on the border of Leeds and Bradford, which remained open from 1888 right up until 2003 and is now locally known as Chevin Park.
These days, many may be more likely to remember the 2007 lyrics “Running round Highroyds isn’t fun / Just teenagers testing their courage” from Kaiser Chiefs’ album, Yours Sincerely, Angry Mob.
Growing up in and around Menston, reminiscing about time gone by is natural for any group of friends, so naturally, when the Kaiser Chiefs were remembering the old town they spent their teenage years, it was only right to include those memories in the song Highroyds.
Now, LeedsLive reports that the Grade II listed site may make a return, not as a homage to the Leeds-own band, but into a residential estate that injects new live into the old building.
The planning application, made by Avant Homes, explains that after its numerous break-ins and vandalism, the new owners would be able to redevelop and maintain the land.
“The existing grounds are (an) ideal environment for residential living and will provide essential accommodations for generations to come whilst preserving and enhancing the existing heritage of the site and buildings.”
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The submission has been sent to Leeds City Council for consideration, but if approved, wouls see the Chevin Area transformed.
Kaiser Chiefs meanwhile have been spending their time opening the Rugby World Cup at St James’ Park in Newcastle this weekend.
Feature Image- Wikicommons
