City animal centre closes doors

The animals have been moved to private boarding kennels

An animal rescue centre in the middle of Leeds has finally closed its doors as the charity restructures its branch and moves to new premises.

The site, on Cavendish Street, will now be sold off to property developers, with the cash being used to build a new rescue site.

Leeds and Wakefield RSPCA general manager Chris Whippey said the current building was no longer suitable.

Prospective adopters are now asked to call the RSPCA on 01924 365625.

Minimum requirements

Mr Whippey told BBC News: "The centre has effectively closed today (Tuesday). The animals have been moved out to private boarding facilities in Morley.

"We are selling the site, more than likely to a property developer.

"The (current) building is 40 years old and the majority of the animals' accommodation doesn't meet the minimum licensing requirements.

"We'd need to put £80,000 into the building just to bring it up to the required standard."

RSPCA adoption numbers Dog adoption 07743 773 871 Cat or rabbits 07785 750 492 General 01924 365 625

The administration headquarters for the Leeds and Wakefield branch will now be based in Wakefield, with an animal advice centre on Garden Street in the city.

Chris Whippey added: "We've made sure animal welfare care is not reduced as we move.

"This is a stop-gap period, a maximum of two-and-a-half years.

"We're going to build a new animal centre for the Leeds and Wakefield area and we're actively looking for a site.

"Money from the sale of the Cavendish Street site will automatically be invested in any new site."

Anyone considering adopting an animal from the RSPCA must now contact field officers on the telephone numbers listed above.