By KLTV Newsdesk –

Former library to become museum and art gallery as town centre transformation continues

Huddersfield town centre is set for another major boost after Kirklees Council’s Cabinet approved the next stages of Our Cultural Heart, the flagship regeneration scheme within the Huddersfield Blueprint.

The decision means Phase 2 of the project can now move forward, with the much-loved former library building to be transformed into a state-of-the-art museum and art gallery, surrounded by new public spaces.

Work is scheduled to begin in spring 2026, with the museum and gallery due to open in 2029.

Building on Progress

The plans build on progress already being made in Phase 1, where construction is underway on a new library hub, food hall and public square.

These are all on track to open in summer 2026.

The library hub will also house the West Yorkshire Archive, while a preferred tenant has been lined up to run the new food hall, bringing a mix of independent food businesses into the town centre.

Cabinet has also approved preparations for the demolition of the remaining Piazza retail units in 2026, making way for a new town centre park, which will form Phase 3 of the scheme.

A Cultural Campus for the Future

Together, the projects will create a cultural campus in the heart of Huddersfield – celebrating the town’s heritage while offering new opportunities for leisure, learning and investment.

Councillor Graham Turner, Cabinet Member for Finance and Regeneration, described the approval as a significant step forward.

“This is such a positive moment for Huddersfield. Approving the next stages of Our Cultural Heart means we can keep the transformation moving and deliver something really special.

“The new library hub, food hall and public square will open their doors in 2026 – and now we can look forward to the museum, art gallery and town centre park that will follow.

“This is about creating a town centre for everyone: families, businesses, students and visitors.”

Jobs, Investment and Growth

The scheme is expected to create hundreds of jobs, attract new investment and provide free-to-access cultural and green spaces for residents and visitors.

It will also play a key role in boosting Huddersfield’s economy and supporting wider regeneration projects across Kirklees.

You can learn more about the ‘Our Cultural Heart’ development on their website.