Kirklees Council’s flagship regeneration project, Our Cultural Heart, is incorporating the district’s proud textile heritage into the future of Huddersfield town centre.
In a nod to the region’s historic weaving and textile industry, paving designs in the scheme’s new public square will be inspired by traditional patterns that have long defined the craft across Kirklees. These patterns – Madras, Glen Check and Tattersall – are synonymous with the area’s reputation for world-class cloth and will influence the textured brick paving at the heart of Huddersfield’s new cultural destination.
The idea of incorporating the patterns, as well as the ‘Made in Huddersfield’ selvedge, came from a visit to Jacob Brian Tailors, based at the historic Old Dye Works in Paddock. The ‘Made in Huddersfield’ selvedge is an internationally recognised mark of quality, and its inclusion in the square’s design will celebrate the region’s global standing in textiles.
The public square, designed by award-winning landscape architects re-form, will open in 2026 as part of Phase One of the development. This phase also includes a vibrant new food hall, set within the former Queensgate Market building, and a modern community library hub.
Textiles have long been central to Kirklees’ identity, and the Our Cultural Heart design team was determined to reflect heritage in a contemporary way, aiming to deliver a genuine connection between residents and their new-look town centre.
Councillor Graham Turner, Cabinet Member for Finance and Regeneration, said:
“Our Cultural Heart isn’t just about creating attractive spaces – it’s about creating opportunities for our communities and driving Kirklees’ local economy. By blending heritage with modern design and supporting local businesses, we’re building a vibrant town centre where residents, visitors and traders can thrive and feel a genuine sense of ownership and pride.”
Guy Denton, Director at re-form Landscape Architects, said:
“Our goal is to create a public realm that feels authentic to Huddersfield and the wider region. By drawing inspiration from the area’s celebrated textile industry, we’re embedding a story of craftmanship and heritage into the landscape for decades to come. People connect with new spaces more deeply when they reflect local identity, so we always look for ways to bring the stories of a place into its future.”
Mike Harvey, Managing Director of Jacob Brian Tailors, added:
“Introducing the ‘Made in Huddersfield’ symbol of quality, alongside patterns like Madras, Glen Check and Tattersall, into the public square is a fantastic way to give the development authenticity. Celebrating heritage isn’t about looking backwards, it’s about giving people a sense of pride and belonging.
“We’re excited about Our Cultural Heart. It can help draw more people into town, support local businesses, and create an environment that reflects both our heritage and future growth. It’s a positive step, and we’re proud to have played a small part in shaping its story.”
Future phases of Our Cultural Heart will see the transformation of the former library building, located on Princess Alexandra Walk, into a major new museum and art gallery. The museum will sit alongside a large, family-friendly urban park. The park has also been designed by re-form, ensuring a connected sense of place across the whole masterplan.
Our Cultural Heart is being delivered by Kirklees Council in partnership with an expert regeneration team, including BAM (lead contractor), Turner & Townsend (Strategic Development Partner), architects FCBStudios, engineers Arup, and landscape architects re-form.