The renovation of George Hotel and the former Estates Building are two of the Huddersfield Blueprint’s most significant projects. Kirklees Council has now announced the appointed architects for the projects.
The council has appointed Bowman Riley. Bowman Riley is experts in the architectural sector and has a wealth of experience working with heritage buildings.
The Huddersfield Blueprint
Kirklees Council unveiled the Huddersfield regeneration blueprint in June 2019. The blueprint aims to see the regeneration of the town centre. To build a vibrant hub of art, culture and leisure and make it a great place to live with accessible and modern public spaces.
High Street Heritage Action Zone (HAZ)
George Hotel and the Estates Building are part of the High Street Heritage Action Zone (HAZ). Their renovation is funded by a partnership between historical England and Kirklees council.
HAZ aims to regenerate historical buildings in high streets. To repair and repurpose them.
The revitalisation of the George Hotel and the former Estates Building is due to be completed by 2024.
The repair of Huddersfield heritage buildings is not where development stops. There will be several community events in and around Huddersfield’s town centre. They will celebrate the historic town and its unique architectural heritage.
Who is Bowman Riley?
Bowman Riley is an award-winning team of architects, building consultants and interior designers with over 50 years of experience.
Over the next three years, Bowman Riley will work on bringing Huddersfield iconic buildings back to life. They will renovate and repurpose them while preserving their rich heritage.
A New life for Huddersfield Town Centre
David Shepherd, Strategic Director for Growth and Regeneration, said:
“Recruiting the architects to work on these projects is an important step towards achieving our blueprint vision for Huddersfield. Regeneration projects of this scale take time to get off the ground, but that doesn’t mean the legal and technical work isn’t happening in the background.
“The renovation of the George Hotel and Estates Building will help to bring more independent and local businesses to the town, increasing the town’s cultural and leisure offerings. Once completed, I’m sure that they will attract shoppers and visitors from across the region to the town centre.”
Chris Collett from Historic England said: “The appointment of Bowman Riley represents a significant stage in the redevelopment of two of Huddersfield’s most important historic buildings and the wider rejuvenation of St George’s Square.
“By bringing these underused buildings back into use, the High Street Heritage Action Zone will breathe new life into St George’s Square and encourage local people and visitors to spend more time in Huddersfield’s town centre.”