Preliminary work to regenerate the site of a prominent derelict building in the centre of Starbeck is finally set to begin.

The Harpers building, next to St Andrew’s Church, has remained a burned-out shell since an arson attack in 2018.

Volunteers painted it yellow and blue in 2022 to show solidarity with Ukraine in its war with Russia. Planters have also been placed outside to enhance the appearance, but the building’s long-term disuse has been a blight on Starbeck High Street.

Owner Graham Bates has been battling with planners to revive the site. Last year he submitted plans for a mixed development that includes nine flats and a retail unit.

George Johnson, managing director of Leeds contractors Hookstone Group, has written to residents saying demolition work will begin on Monday (January 12) and nearby parking will be suspended from Sunday for an unspecified period.

But owner Graham Bates, who plans to build nine flats as part of a mixed development that also includes a retail unit, told the Stray Ferret the building was not being demolished.

Mr Bates said:

“We are still waiting for planning consent but in the meantime, we will be scaffolding the building and starting the clearing works including asbestos removal. We are pressing the planners to push this through as we have our contractors ready to go.”

Mr Johnson’s letter said work will take place from 8am to 4.30pm from Monday to Friday. It added:

“There may be some noise and restricted access at times however we will ensure we keep these to a minimum to ensure there is limited impact. We will do everything possible to minimise disruption and keep you informed.”

The building was originally a Harpers grocery store and later a McColl’s supermarket. But it had been vacant for two years fire broke out in 2018.

Local postmaster Andrew Hart has said Mr Bates’ scheme “will transform our High Street”.