Kirkabbey Kennels, Sluice Gates, Cottage And Weir On River Aire

Kirkabbey Kennels includes a weir on the River Aire, sluice gates for the Abbey Mills goit headrace, and a keeper's cottage with retaining walls. The site has medieval origins, with the weir and sluice gates being early 19th century rebuilds, and some 20th century alterations. The weir is approximately 80 meters wide, constructed from large gritstone blocks, with a revetment wall on the west side of the river that is similar in style. The cottage, located at the east end of the weir, is designed in the Gothic Revival style and is single storey, built of ashlar, with a roof concealed by a crenellated parapet. The north side of the cottage, which faces upstream, features a six-panel door and a lancet window towards the sluice gates, along with a rebuilt three-light oriel window facing the river. There are 20th century additions on the south side. The sluice gates consist of eight vertical paddles and a walkway above, situated between the cottage entrance and a crenellated screen wall with pilasters. This location is significant for controlling the water power from Abbey to Burley Mills on Kirkstall Road, and the weir is believed to have been originally constructed to ensure sufficient water depth for transporting building stone to Kirkstall Abbey along the Aire.