By KLTV Newsdesk –

Residents invited to explore the transformation of the historic market into a new cultural destination as part of Heritage Open Days

As part of this year’s Heritage Open Days celebrations, Kirklees residents are being offered a rare behind-the-scenes look at one of Huddersfield’s most iconic landmarks – the former Queensgate Market.

The Grade II listed building, which opened in 1970 and is now central to the Our Cultural Heart regeneration programme, will open its doors on Thursday 18 September 2025 for a special public tour.

The event offers a unique chance to explore how a much-loved piece of the town’s history is being reimagined for the future.

A Glimpse into the Future of a Modernist Gem

Visitors will be guided through the site by BAM, the council’s construction partner, who will lead informal tours and offer insight into the redevelopment of the former market into a vibrant food hall and new library hub.

The tour will highlight some of the building’s standout architectural features, including its distinctive hyperbolic paraboloid roof structures, which are being retained in the new design, and the colourful ceramic panels created by artist Fritz Steller.

The event is free to attend and will include heritage displays as well as opportunities to speak to the team behind the transformation.

Celebrating Our Past, Looking to the Future

Councillor Graham Turner, Cabinet Member for Finance and Regeneration, described the open day as an inspiring opportunity to witness history being repurposed for generations to come.

He said: “This is a fantastic chance for people to see how we’re breathing new life into one of Huddersfield’s best-loved buildings.

“The former market is part of our town’s story, and it’s inspiring to see it evolve into something special for future generations.

We’re proud to support Heritage Open Days and showcase how our history continues to shape our future.”

David Griffiths, local coordinator for Heritage Open Days, said he was thrilled Queensgate Market was part of this year’s celebrations.

With architecture chosen as the national theme for 2025, he noted it was the perfect moment to shine a light on this modernist structure alongside other notable sites such as the Kirklees Stadium and Passivhaus homes.

Preserving Identity While Building for Tomorrow

Mark Gibson, Construction Director for BAM, said the team was honoured to be part of the project.

He commented: “At BAM, we’re passionate about building on heritage. The Queensgate Market is a unique piece of Huddersfield’s identity, and we’re honoured to help preserve its structure while creating something new.

We look forward to welcoming people on site and sharing the exciting progress.”

What’s Next for Our Cultural Heart?

Work on Phase One of the Our Cultural Heart development is already well underway and is expected to be completed by spring 2026, with the new food hall and library scheduled to open to the public in summer 2026.

Phase Two, which has now received full planning approval, will see the transformation of the former library and gallery building into a regional museum and art gallery.

To find out more about the Queensgate Market open day or book your place, visit the Heritage Open Days website.