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News • September 4th, 2026
|The exciting transformation of Huddersfield town centre is well underway with the launch of the Our Cultural Heart project, a major initiative led by Kirklees Council. As part of this ambitious regeneration scheme, the new Huddersfield Library Hub and Queensgate Square are set to open on Monday 21 September. This marks a significant step in creating a vibrant cultural hub that celebrates the town's rich history while providing modern facilities for residents and visitors alike.
Celebrating The Library Hub And Queensgate Square
The opening of the Library Hub and Queensgate Square is an event not to be missed. A week of free activities is planned to welcome everyone to these new spaces. The Library Hub is designed to be bright and inviting, offering a place for reading, learning, and creativity. Visitors can explore the hub, meet the friendly library team, and discover various services and activities available.
On the weekend of Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 September, the festivities will reach their peak. Both the Library Hub and Queensgate Square will host an array of free entertainment and family activities, including:
Lego Club
Chess Club
Knit and Natter
Family Library Adventures Trail
Makerspace demonstrations
Meanwhile, Queensgate Square will come alive with live music, arts and crafts, workshops, community art, traditional games, and a selection of food and drink vendors from 12pm Saturday through Sunday. All activities are free, and no booking is required, making it easy for families to drop in and enjoy the festivities.
Phase Two Development Progress
As part of the Our Cultural Heart project, Kirklees Council has appointed BAM UK & Ireland as the principal contractor for Phase Two, which is already making significant strides. This phase involves the conversion of the historic Huddersfield Library building on Princess Alexandra Walk into a new museum and art gallery. The building, which dates back to the 1930s and is a Grade II-listed structure, will undergo a sensitive refurbishment coupled with a striking contemporary extension.
The work also includes the demolition of the adjacent Piazza Shopping Centre, paving the way for future developments, including a large urban park. The £55.9 million contract for this phase is expected to run from summer 2026 until winter 2027/28, with the museum and gallery projected to open in spring 2029 following an extensive fit-out process.
Food Hall Plans Take Shape
Another exciting aspect of the Our Cultural Heart project is the development of a new Food Hall, with plans progressing quickly. Food and hospitality specialists JT & Crew have joined the team to help create a vibrant venue that will offer a diverse range of food options. With the building structure already in place, the focus is now on curating a mix of independent food businesses that can offer a variety of flavours and price points.
JT & Crew will be responsible for everything from the design and fit-out of the space to recruiting staff and ensuring food safety compliance. The aim is to create a welcoming environment that will draw in visitors, with the Food Hall expected to open its doors in 2027.
Community Engagement And Public Naming
The new Queensgate Square has been named as part of a public vote, which saw thousands of residents participate. The name received a whopping 41% of the votes, showcasing the community's excitement and connection to the new space. This square will serve as a central point for events and gatherings, enhancing the social fabric of Huddersfield town centre.
Preserving History With New Archives
As part of the Our Cultural Heart initiative, the West Yorkshire Archive Service will move its Kirklees office into the new Huddersfield Library Hub. This will create a modern and accessible space where residents can explore local history and archives. Visitors can look forward to a new exhibition that will provide insights into the rich history of the area when the Library Hub opens its doors.
Phase Two of the project is already making significant progress, with the site preparations underway. The internal strip-out of the existing library has been completed, and demolition work is set to commence soon. This will allow for the renovation of the building while ensuring that many important heritage items are safely stored for restoration before being reinstalled.
With the Our Cultural Heart project, Huddersfield is set to become a vibrant cultural destination that not only preserves its history but also embraces modernity for the benefit of future generations. As the project continues to develop, it promises to create a lively community space that will be a source of pride for residents and an attraction for visitors from across Yorkshire and beyond.
