George Hotel plans reworked, Our Cultural Heart works advance
Kirklees Council wants to fit more guest rooms into the redevelopment of the historic Huddersfield hotel, while the town’s flagship regeneration project is on target for completion in spring 2026.
George Hotel
Kirklees said that having worked closely with its architect AHR and Historic England, it now wants to create 17 more bedrooms, taking the total from 91 to 108. Adjusted plans have now been submitted.
The council is keen that the asset can generate more income, having committed further cash to the project last autumn, taking its commitment to £30m. Radisson RED remains lined up as operator.
The professional team also includes MAC Consulting, Adept, and Waldeck. Queensberry is project managing, with GMI installed as main contractor.
Cllr Graham Turner, cabinet member for finance and regeneration, said: “The George Hotel plays such a key role in Huddersfield’s past, and for people travelling by rail, it will always be one of the very first buildings to welcome you as you enter the town centre.
“Once rejuvenated, the hotel will be perfectly placed to thrive and channel current investment back into the local economy.”
The reworked plans can be viewed on Kirklees’ planning portal with the reference 2025/48/91147/W.
Our Cultural Heart
Demolition work is now complete, with the transformation of the former Queensgate Market building gaining momentum.
The striking paraboloid roof structures have now been fully revealed and new glazing is being installed between them, making the roof watertight above the future food hall venue.
In the coming months, structural steelwork and the construction of the main elevations will begin to take shape.
Phase one, inked in for practical completion in spring 2026, includes the food hall, a community library hub and public square. Opening is expected next summer.
With the roof panels, in, glazing will now follow. Credit: via Counter Context
Construction work began in summer 2024, including the partial demolition of the grade two-listed former Queensgate Market building.
Kirklees said that the process of selecting an operator for the food hall is well underway, with an announcement anticipated later this year.
Cllr Turner said: “We’re proud to see the first phase of Our Cultural Heart progressing so well and are excited to be transforming this iconic space into something truly special for Huddersfield and the wider Kirklees borough. The new library hub, food hall and public square will not only celebrate our town’s unique history but also create a vibrant, modern destination for people to enjoy for generations to come.”
Phase Two of the Our Cultural Heart masterplan, which received full planning approval last month, will see the former library and gallery building on Princess Alexandra Walk refurbished to house a major museum and art gallery for the region.
While some early exploratory and preparatory works are already taking place, construction on this next phase will begin following the completion of phase one.
