Regional Minister Announces £6million Funding for Huddersfield Waterfront

01/03/2010

Regional Minister Rosie Winterton has announced a £6million funding package for the Huddersfield Waterfront Quarter, during an event focusing on the economic development in England’s regions.

The event, hosted by Business Secretary Lord Mandelson and attended by Chair of Yorkshire Forward Terry Hodgkinson, marked a series of announcements from across England’s regions, made possible through the New Industry, New Jobs agenda and other policy interventions.

The funding, provided by Yorkshire Forward, is part of the fiscal stimulus package announced by Government in 2009 and will help deliver the first phase of development of the Waterfront scheme, in conjunction with Kirklees Council.

The first phase of development will include the acquisition of the site, infrastructure works to the site, and the re-opening of a section of the Huddersfield Narrow Canal.

Yorkshire Forward’s support is in addition to a £54million investment from the Learning and Skills Council for the development of the new facility, secured by the Kirklees College.

The development of the brownfield site, presently occupied by an engineering works, will also help facilitate the relocation of the existing Sellers Engineering to a new purpose built facility, which will help to secure existing jobs at the company.

The finished Waterfront scheme will include 17,650 sqm of Grade A office space, a new 27,900 sqm college facility for Kirklees College and 23,225 sqm of homes, hotels and other leisure facilities. In addition, the development links both the river and canal corridors and Huddersfield University to the town centre, increasing the town’s accessibility. 

Terry Hodgkinson, Chair of Yorkshire Forward comments:
“Huddersfield Waterfront Quarter is a great example of how public sector partners can work together to kick start significant regeneration projects, especially in the current economic climate. This major scheme will secure a key town centre site for further development and ensure over 1200 jobs are created or safeguarded in the area, contributing to its long term prosperity.”

Regional Minister Rosie Winterton said:
“I am delighted that Yorkshire Forward is supporting this major development in Huddersfield.  This scheme not only provides a site for the new College but also provides future development land for an office quarter which does not currently exist in the town. The creation of the Waterfront Quarter will be a significant economic boost to the town centre and the surrounding area.”

Notes to editors

Yorkshire Forward

  • Yorkshire Forward is the Regional Development Agency behind the economic regeneration of Yorkshire and Humber. It aims to make a positive difference by investing in jobs, improving towns and cities, and in supporting businesses throughout the region. 
  • Yorkshire Forward’s investment across the region is maximised by attracting European Regional Development Funding.