By Joshua Robinson – 

Byram Arcade is a historic shopping centre located in Huddersfield, full of Victorian aesthetics and history. For some time, Kirklees Council and several contractors have been restoring the building.

Byram Arcade, tracing its roots back to 1881, holds a unique place in Huddersfield’s architectural heritage. Fully funded by the council, a restoration project was initiated to ensure that Byram Arcade would be able to stand for future generations.

What has been done so far?

Several areas of the Byram Arcade have been renovated to ensure its continued presence.

• Roof: The roof is nearly completed and has undergone work to protect it from the elements, making it wind and watertight. All works are approved and carried out in conjunction with listed building and conservation teams, ensuring compliance with historical preservation standards.
• Ridge tiles: Salvaged ridge tiles from the demolition of the old Kirklees College building have been reused for this project since some of the existing roof tiles were beyond repair.
• Roof lantern: The historic roof lantern will soon be fully replaced.
• Chimney pots: Seven chimney pots have undergone a stabilization program.
• Windows: The windows are being restored and made operational and draught-proof. Some will receive replacement glazing to enhance energy efficiency.
• Stonework: Loose stones will be descaled, repointed, and replaced with lime mortar to stop deterioration. 

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List of Contractors:

Lead Consultant – AHR

Main Contractor – HH Smith & Sons Co Ltd

Specialist sub-contactors:

• Scaffolding – Kirk Scaffolding
• Roofing – Moda Contracting Ltd and Northwest Lead Ltd.
• Stone Masons – Mather & Ellis Ltd
• Huddersfield-based quarry Johnsons Wellfield
• Huddersfield based Joinery company – Holme Valley Joinery Ltd
• Painting & Decorating – JG Lee Decorators Ltd.
• Hoarding – Hoard-It
• Electrical – Performance Electrical Ltd
• Cast Iron – Stafford Rainwater Systems Ltd
• Lightning Protection – Raiden Lighting Protection Services Ltd
• Asbestos – Bradley Environmental

Huddersfield Blueprint:

The Byram Arcade is one of the Huddersfield Blueprint’s key projects, alongside the Estate Building, Huddersfield Town Hall, the George Hotel, and Our Cultural Heart.

Businesses within Byram Arcade have been collaborating closely with the project teams and contractors.

The project is due to be completed next Spring.