25 March 2026 —
Kirklees Council’s Cabinet has approved the final steps needed to open Huddersfield’s new food hall at Our Cultural Heart.
The decision means work can now move ahead to complete the specialist internal fit out and confirm the operating arrangements, bringing the food hall closer to welcoming businesses and customers.
Our Cultural Heart is the major regeneration programme transforming part of Huddersfield town centre. Phase 1 includes a new community library hub, including the West Yorkshire Archive Service, a vibrant food hall and a welcoming public square. Construction is almost complete, with the library hub and square due to open in summer 2026.
While the main structure of the food hall is nearing completion, the space now moves into its final stage. A specialist fit out will install commercial kitchens, ventilation systems, power supplies and individual trading spaces designed for independent food businesses. This detailed work will ensure the venue is fully equipped and ready to operate successfully from day one.
The food hall will open once this fit out is complete and the operator is confirmed. The launch will be timed to coincide with the strongest trading period for a new food destination, with current plans allowing for an opening up to spring 2027.
Cabinet has also agreed to delegate authority to conclude the selection of the food hall operator. The options remain leasing the space to an experienced operator, running it through a management agreement, or operating it directly by the council. This flexibility will ensure the best long-term arrangement is secured for the town and for residents.
To fund the final stage, Cabinet approved the release of up to £3 million from later phases of the programme. This increases the committed Phase 1 budget from £58.370 million to £61.370 million and the overall programme commitment from £137.185 million to £140.185 million. The funding is reallocated from within the existing capital programme and remains within the overall approved budget.
David Shepherd, Executive Director for Place, said:
“The approval from Cabinet is an important milestone. The building is taking shape and we can now focus on completing the specialist fit out and confirming the operator so the food hall is ready to open strongly.
“This is about creating a high-quality destination in the heart of Huddersfield that supports local businesses, creates jobs and gives people another great reason to spend time in the town centre. We are setting it up for long-term success.”