By KLTV Newsdesk – 

£55.9 million contract will transform former library into new museum and art gallery

Kirklees Council has appointed BAM UK & Ireland (BAM) as the principal contractor for the second phase of Our Cultural Heart, the major programme transforming Huddersfield town centre.

The £55.9 million contract will see the former Huddersfield Library building on Princess Alexandra Walk converted into a new flagship museum and art gallery, as work continues on the ambitious regeneration programme.

Our Cultural Heart is transforming the area between Queensgate, Queen Street, King Street and Victoria Lane, with the aim of creating a vibrant cultural and social destination in the heart of Huddersfield.

Historic library building set for new chapter

Phase Two officially began on site last month and will involve the sensitive refurbishment of the Grade II-listed former library, which was originally built in the 1930s.

The historic building will be complemented by a striking contemporary extension, creating a new cultural venue designed to showcase Huddersfield’s heritage and provide a major destination for visitors.

The works will also include the demolition of the adjacent Piazza Shopping Centre. The cleared site will make way for future elements of the wider masterplan, including a large urban park.

The main works are scheduled to run from summer 2026 until winter 2027/28, with the museum and gallery expected to open to the public in spring 2029 following an extensive internal fit-out.

BAM continues partnership with Kirklees Council

The contract was awarded through the Crown Commercial Service’s Construction Works and Associated Services framework.

BAM previously acted as the lead construction contractor for Phase One of Our Cultural Heart and will now continue its partnership with Kirklees Council.

The company is expected to build on its social value commitments during Phase Two, working alongside local communities, businesses and supply chain partners throughout the project.

David Shepherd, Executive Director for Place at Kirklees Council, said: “Appointing BAM to deliver Phase Two is a significant milestone for Our Cultural Heart and for the regeneration of Huddersfield town centre. With work now underway, we’re moving into the next major stage of delivering our ambitious plans for the town.

“BAM brings valuable experience from its work on Phase One, and that continuity will help us maintain the momentum we’ve built as we move forward with this complex and significant programme.

“Phase Two will breathe new life into one of Huddersfield’s landmark buildings, creating a museum and art gallery that celebrates our heritage while giving the town a cultural destination with the quality and ambition to stand among the best in Yorkshire.

“This is about much more than a single building. Our Cultural Heart is reshaping this part of Huddersfield town centre, creating new reasons for people to visit, spend time here and be part of its future.”

Matt Garnett, BAM Construction Manager, added: “We’re proud to continue our work with Kirklees Council on such an important regeneration programme for the people and businesses of Huddersfield.

“Phase two will bring a much-loved 1930s building back into use as a new Museum and Gallery, while supporting the wider transformation of the town centre. Reusing and adapting the existing library building is a significant part of the scheme, helping to preserve local heritage while creating a vibrant cultural destination for future generations.”

Phase One taking shape

The first phase of Our Cultural Heart included a new food hall within the iconic former Queensgate Market building, a flagship library hub and a new public square.

The library hub and public square elements of Phase One are expected to open in summer 2026, while the new food hall is scheduled to open in 2027.

With Phase Two now progressing, the council says the latest works represent another significant step towards delivering the wider Our Cultural Heart masterplan.

Residents can keep up to date with the latest developments by signing up to the Our Cultural Heart newsletter.