Kirklees Council is moving forward on the plans to remodel Buxton House, a high-rise block in Huddersfield town centre. A full planning application has been submitted this January.
A dedicated council housing team has started conversations with tenants to help them find new homes. Financial help and tailored support will be provided to make moving easier before the work begins.
This comes after a well-engaged consultation was held in August 2023, allowing tenants to share their feedback on the plans for the building.
Working closely with building consultants AHR, the council has used this feedback to shape the plans. The remodelling will also save money in the long run by making the building more energy efficient.
The project will reuse the current building’s main structure but will result in major improvements to fire safety, the layout of the flats and communal spaces and the external appearance of the building, including a new entrance. It is the intention to connect the building to the proposed district heating system, helping to reduce heating costs for tenants.
Solar power features are also included in the plans, showing the council’s commitment to both improving housing standards and reducing environmental impact.
Councillor Moses Crook, Cabinet Member for Housing and Highways, said: “I am delighted we are now at the stage where we have submitted a planning application for the remodelling of Buxton House, as well as starting to have conversations with our tenants on their future housing options.
“We know this might be a challenging time for our tenants, but full support will be in place throughout the project.
“The work is essential for meeting new building safety laws, improving tenant experience and also for reducing the building’s environmental impact. AHR has worked with us to include features that will save money for both the council and tenants.”
The £57 million budget for improving high-rise blocks in Kirklees comes from rent payments and is only used to upgrade and maintain council housing. The work on Buxton House is crucial for improving fire safety and keeping tenants safe.
