Huddersfield town centre revamp gets go-ahead

BAM Construction has been appointed as lead contractor for the first phase of Kirklees Council’s flagship Our Cultural Heart development, to transform Huddersfield town centre.

Plans for Our Cultural Heart – the centrepiece of the Council’s ten-year Huddersfield Blueprint vision – include the refurbishment of the former Queensgate Market and Huddersfield Library buildings to house a food hall and a modern museum and gallery respectively. These will sit alongside a new community-focused library, a live entertainment venue and a 350-space car park.

BAM’s Pre-Construction Director Paul Cleminson, said: “This is an exciting scheme for Huddersfield and its wider regeneration. As a resident of Kirklees, I hope that this will be another vital piece of the plan to attract people back to the town centre.

“The chance to build something special for the town brings with it an obligation, as a responsible business, to use this opportunity to add value to the local economy and community.”

Councillor Shabir Pandor, Leader of Kirklees Council, said: “In times of financial challenge, like the ones we are facing now, it is vital that we don’t lose sight of the investment that will safeguard our economy in the future. Our Cultural Heart is testament to our commitment to bringing a prosperous new era to Kirklees along with vital community services like the library, museum and gallery that will all be free to visit.

“I look forward to seeing this important regeneration project come to life and see the positive effect it will have on Huddersfield town centre for generations to come.”

The first phase of the scheme is expected to complete in winter 2025.