Exciting proposals to transform Northgate House into premium office and retail space at the heart of Halifax town centre have moved a step closer.
As part of the wider transformation of Halifax, Calderdale Council is planning to renovate its vacant former office building to support the vibrancy of the town centre.
On Wednesday 6 February 2019, the West Yorkshire Combined Authority Investment Committee granted £3 million from the Local Growth Fund towards the £10.65 million refurbishment cost. This is a key milestone, enabling the ambitious project to move forward.
Cllr Tim Swift, Calderdale Council’s Leader, said:
“Our vision is to make Halifax, and Calderdale as a whole, an even more thriving place where people want to live, work, learn, visit and invest. To achieve this, we’re delivering regeneration through an unprecedented level of investment. The Northgate House transformation aims to increase footfall, trade and jobs in Halifax town centre, alongside plans for improved transport links, attractive public spaces and pedestrianised areas.”
Subject to final approvals for the project, the state-of-the-art offices and shops are expected to be complete by spring 2020. There is already a good amount of interest in the site.
The £3 million funding is through the Leeds City Region Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) Growth Deal – a £1 billion package of Government investment delivered in partnership with the West Yorkshire Combined Authority to accelerate growth and create jobs across Leeds City Region.
Roger Marsh OBE, Chair of the Leeds City Region LEP, said:
“Here is a prime example of how Growth Deal funding is enabling the LEP to accelerate economic growth across the entire City Region. The regeneration of Halifax town centre will support existing businesses to grow, encourage inward investment and create employment opportunities.
“This project represents a significant catalyst in the regeneration of Halifax which will engender confidence and momentum to support inclusive growth which works for everyone.”
Cllr Peter Box, Chair of the West Yorkshire and York Investment Committee, said:
“The next phase of the regeneration of Halifax town centre will build on the success story we have already seen with the new library development, the restoration of The Piece Hall and the extension of Square Chapel.
“This is an exciting project which will totally transform the town centre, creating even more reasons for people to visit, shop and set up their businesses here for the benefit of the local community.”
Next to Northgate House, in the former Central Library building, a brand new sixth form centre is being jointly developed by Calderdale Council, Trinity Multi-Academy Trust and Rastrick High School.
The high-quality facility will give Calderdale’s young people more options for their post-16 education, helping them reach their potential and to retain talent in the borough.
Bringing a sixth form centre to the heart of Halifax town centre will also give students access to the growing retail, food and leisure offer in the town. It is expected to open to students from January 2020.
The Northgate transformation is part of the Next Chapter to enable economic growth, reduce inequalities and build a sustainable future. For more information about this and other exciting developments in Calderdale, visit www.calderdalenextchapter.co.uk(external link) and follow #CdaleNextChapter on Twitter.
The Next Chapter helps to form the Vision2024 for Calderdale. In the year 2024, Calderdale will celebrate its 50th birthday. Where do we want to be by 2024? What’s our ambition and what will be different? Get involved in the conversation using #VisionCdale2024 on Twitter, by following Calderdale Council on Facebook and by visiting www.calderdale.gov.uk/vision