At next week’s (11 October) cabinet meeting, Kirklees Council’s officers will ask for approval to move forward with the refurbishment and redevelopment of the George Hotel, Huddersfield. Proposals also include details about the council’s preferred hotel operator.
The George Hotel is a vital part of Huddersfield’s heritage. It is in a highly prominent location on St George’s Square and close to Huddersfield Railway Station.
The council purchased the vacant building in 2020 with a commitment to bring it back into use and restore it to its former glory in the heart of Huddersfield. Since then extensive surveys and works have been carried out to make the building safe.
Earlier this year, essential remedial works started to make the building safe and watertight. The works were also to preserve the heritage and character of this Grade II* Listed building.
In May 2022, the council revealed that it was exploring the possibility of attracting a hotel operator. The preferred hotel operator has been selected as the result of a robust and competitive process with Radisson Hotel Group being the preferred partner.
If the current proposals are approved by cabinet, a Hotel Management Agreement will be drawn up with Radisson Hotel Group.
Research into the demand for a hotel of this quality in Huddersfield suggests that, due to a limited supply of upscale, full-service branded hotels in the town, there is a strong market opportunity for this type of hotel concept.
The report being presented to cabinet asks for the allocation of £20million. This is to complete the work needed to restore and redevelop the building. This is to make sure it is in prime condition to be transformed into a quality hotel.
Councillor Graham Turner, cabinet member for regeneration, said: “I am genuinely excited and proud that we have taken a dilapidated building and are about to turn it into something that our residents will be proud of.
“The George Hotel was once the jewel in Huddersfield’s crown, and I am determined to see it restored to its rightful position in the town. We have ambitious plans for Huddersfield town centre, plans that will attract visitors from near and far. Having a quality hotel close to travel connections will only add to the appeal of a revitalised, vibrant destination.
“Along with the Cultural Heart and the overall Huddersfield Blueprint, we are taking action to stop the decline of the town. High streets up and down the country have to look for ways to keep town centres alive, what we are doing in Huddersfield could set a great example to many.
“Kirklees is open for business and we will continue to invest in and regenerate our much loved historic buildings.”
