Work starts on Huddersfield town transformation

Kirklees Council said once complete the new building would lead to a public square for outdoor cultural events

Major construction work has begun as part of plans to transform Huddersfield's former Queensgate Market.

The market, which closed in October 2022, is set to be converted into a foodhall and library at a cost of £16.5m as part of a project dubbed 'Our Cultural Heart'.

The work is the first phase of a wider £250m blueprint for the town centre, which also includes plans for a museum and a live entertainment venue.

Kirklees Council leader Carole Pattinson said it was a "proud moment" to see the work begin after years of extensive planning and consultation.

Contractor BAM has already stripped the market's interior fixtures and fittings and removed market stalls and asbestos, the council said, while listed sections of the market are set to be refurbished to "celebrate its unique heritage and character".

Pattison added: "We have high ambitions for this new era of our town centre.

"Developments like Our Cultural Heart will bring more visitors to the town and help to drive growth and investment in Huddersfield and the wider Kirklees borough.

“Now that the internal strip out is completed and the real work is underway, the transformation of the site will quickly become visible to all in our town and a source of pride and excitement for what’s to come.”

Once completed the building will lead to a new public square, with the connecting space used for outdoor cultural events, the council said.

A food hall would be installed in the former market building, the council said

Work on the market began as a planning application to create a new "flagship" museum and art gallery in the former library on Princess Alexandra Walk were submitted.

According to the council, the building will also house a cafe, shop and space for events and educational activities.

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