Kirklees Council has submitted updated plans for the second phase of its Our Cultural Heart development in Huddersfield town centre, concentrating on a flagship new museum and art gallery in the former library building on Princess Alexandra Walk.
Construction on Phase One of Our Cultural Heart is underway, with the former Queensgate Market building being transformed into a food hall and adjoining new community library.
Lead construction contractor BAM has already completed significant site preparation, with work including the ‘soft stripping’ of all non-structural and internal fixtures and fittings, as well as the removal of the former market stalls and asbestos.
This ‘Section 73’ planning application and Listed Building Consent for Phase Two of the masterplan includes the major refurbishment of the Grade II Listed building that, until recently, housed the town’s library.
The designs by architect FCBStudios will see the historic four-storey building become a flagship museum and art gallery, helping to attract more visitors to the town and creating exciting opportunities for local businesses and the region’s culture sector.
A sympathetically designed extension to the north will enhance accessibility and create uninterrupted connections to the surrounding spaces. Public access will be via a new ramp unlocking universal access to the historic entrance to the south and level access to the new extension.
The ground floor will house the reception, museum and gallery shop, and a 50-seat café with outdoor terrace, while the lower floor will provide storage, building facilities, event and education spaces.
The museum’s exhibitions will be housed across two floors, with the top floor reborn as the art gallery. Many of the flexible spaces within the museum and art gallery will be available for hire, allowing for opportunities to showcase a huge mix of talent from across the region.
Councillor Graham Turner, Cabinet Member for Finance and Regeneration, said: “This is an exciting moment for the Our Cultural Heart programme, as construction begins on the new food hall and library this month, and plans are now in place for the second phase of the development.
“Our decision to phase the programme was always about ensuring its successful delivery, not reducing our overall ambition. We believe the new museum and art gallery has the potential to become one of the leading cultural destinations in Yorkshire, showcasing the rich stories and talent of Huddersfield and the wider Kirklees borough.
“Not only will it help bring more visitors to our town centre, but it also ensures the long-term viability of one of our most treasured heritage buildings.”
