Turning back the clock to transform shops on John William Street
A new town centre regeneration scheme is underway to transform the look of six shop fronts on Huddersfield John William Street.
Inspired by the heritage of the buildings themselves and surrounding area, we are working alongside B&M Properties, the owners of 19 to 33a John William Street, to improve the look of the current shop fronts by updating signage and taking them back to their roots.
The scheme will not only restore the original architectural appearance of these Grade II listed buildings and the conservation area but it will also ensure the building’s long-term use. The project also compliments the wider Huddersfield Blueprint plans to transform the town centre into a place people want to live, work and visit.
Cllr Graham Turner, Cabinet Member for Finance and Regeneration for Kirklees Council said:
“I am very passionate about the improvement works for John William Street. Installing new shop fronts to retain Kirklees’ remarkable heritage will bring a fitting, new look to the street.
“Huddersfield is made up of buildings filled with breathtaking characteristics and unique history, incorporating this into the participating shops will strongly improve the centre.
“As with most of our blueprints across Huddersfield and beyond, this project will have considerable benefits, enhancing the visitor experience making the high street more attractive as well as supporting economic growth for local businesses.”
A grant of £625,329 was secured in December 2023 from the Huddersfield Heritage Led Regeneration Scheme (HLRS) for this exciting project to go ahead on one of the most popular streets in Huddersfield Town Centre.
Works will see the replacement of six metal framed shop fronts that currently don’t fit with the historical and architectural significance of the buildings. The new shop fronts have been designed to reflect the age of the property and will be made from timber with traditional detailing, stall risers and a fascia board showcasing the name of the business.
To keep disruption to a minimum for shop owners and people visiting the town centre, scaffolding and hoarding will go up on three shops at a time, with clear signage to show they are still open for business.