Kirklees Council is preparing to give final approval to the latest phase of Huddersfield's ambitious town center revitalization project, which will transform a historic library building into a modern museum and art gallery. The development is part of the comprehensive "Our Cultural Heart" initiative, which represents a major investment in the town's cultural and economic future.
The Our Cultural Heart project was first introduced in 2019 as a key component of the "Huddersfield Blueprint," a comprehensive urban renewal strategy. The initiative involves an investment of over $210 million aimed at revitalizing the town's leisure and hospitality sectors. The project is designed to address the changing needs of modern town centers and create new opportunities for cultural engagement.
The second phase of the scheme focuses on converting the four-story Grade II listed former library building on Princess Alexandra Walk into a state-of-the-art museum and art gallery. In January, the council committed to releasing approximately $5.4 million in funding for the renovation work. Construction is scheduled to begin in spring 2026, pending approval at an upcoming Cabinet meeting.
Graham Turner, the council's cabinet member for regeneration, emphasized the significance of this latest development for the town's cultural landscape. "By building a state-of-the-art gallery, it will allow us to accept exhibitions from around the world, we can put any display on in there," Turner explained. He added that the long-term vision includes establishing Huddersfield as "a traveling arts center for the north."
Turner also addressed the broader context of urban development challenges facing towns across the country. "Towns across the country have too much retail space so you have to repurpose that to ensure town centers stay vibrant and relevant," he noted, highlighting the strategic thinking behind the cultural redevelopment approach.
The first phase of the Our Cultural Heart project commenced in summer 2024, featuring construction of a new library hub, food hall, and public square on the site of the former Queensgate Market. The council expects this initial phase to be completed by 2026, with a planned opening scheduled for summer of that year. However, initial plans for an events space on the top floor of the library were eliminated as a cost-saving measure.
Future developments include the third phase of the project, which will involve the early demolition of remaining retail units at the Piazza shopping center in 2026. The Cabinet meeting will also propose moving this demolition to an earlier date to make way for a new town center park, further enhancing the area's appeal as a destination for residents and visitors.
Turner expressed enthusiasm about the transformative impact these changes will have on Huddersfield's identity and appeal. "It's a really exciting time for Huddersfield. We're really going to make Huddersfield a place to live, work and play," he stated. Looking ahead, Turner predicted dramatic changes for the community: "In the next five to 10 years you won't recognize Huddersfield as it is now. It'll be a modern, vibrant town in West Yorkshire."
