Description and History of Site:-
Former John Barrans works. Until recently in multiple uses including a well known music venue. Now (2017) converted to office space. John Barran pioneered the manufacture of machine made clothing in Leeds in the mid 19th century.

The following is taken from the report of an excursion, in 1882, to the works by the Institute of Mechanical Engineers:

"In its the basement are numerous machines cutting out suits, the motive power being obtained from two of Crossley's silent gas-engines, one of 16 and the other of 8 horse-power; these are also used for driving the hoist and the sewing machines on the top floor of the building. On the first floor is a stock of clothing of all sizes and shapes. On the next floor are the pressing machines, heated by gas. In the top storey are 300 sewing machines, all in one room, which is lighted from above. Intricate designs in braiding are done here with wonderful precision and speed. The number of work people employed at present is nearly 2000."

The name Joseph is rumoured to be a family name of the developer.

Further Reading and References:-
A Brief Guide to the Industrial Heritage of West Yorkshire W J Thompson Ed AIA 1989
http://www.gracesguide.co.uk/1882_Institution_of_Mechanical_Engineers:_Visits_to_Works
https://josephswellleeds.com/overview.html

https://www.pullans.co.uk/development/josephs-well/

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Key Words :- factory clothing

Viewing the Site :- Public have (unofficial) access to car park

Address :- Hanover Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS3 1AB
Grid Ref :- SE 29300 33900
Co-ordinates :- Lat 53.800583 , Long -1.556626
Local Authority :- Leeds Council
Pre 1974 County :- Yorkshire - West Riding
Site Status :- Site extant - Protected status unknown
Site Condition :- Site refurbished to industrial / commercial use
Record Date :- 5 May 2015

Copyright :- cc-by-nc-sa 4.0 © Nick Nelson