A steel frame has been put in place at building 15, Tileyard North – the latest progress at the site. The building will house new workspace and hospitality offerings, looking onto the courtyard area.
The overall project is regenerating the Grade II-listed former Rutland Mills on the historic waterfront into the largest creative community outside of London, bringing together people across West Yorkshire working in industries such as music, film, television, and design.
Cllr Denise Jeffrey, Leader of Wakefield Council, said: “Working alongside our partners, Wakefield’s historic waterfront is becoming a vibrant space for creativity.
“We are incredibly proud of this transformation work. It has, and will continue to have, such a positive impact for people and businesses in our district and across our region.”
Cllr Michael Graham, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Growth, said: “It is great to see the progress that’s being made on this building and elsewhere on the site as work continues to transform the former mill complex.
“What was once a set of derelict buildings is becoming a vibrant space for creativity for businesses, people, and entertainment. This redevelopment continues to put Wakefield on the map as a great place to live, work, invest and visit.”
Tileyard North is already making an impact with creatives, musicians and artists alike – from Uber Agency and Architecture 1B, Pure Energy GO and Tidy Trax, to Audoo and Music Factory. With resident studio holders Matt Sanchez, Nick McEnally, James Oliver and Real Movement Music settling in. In the first six months, they’ve had the privilege of hosting more than 30 events with over 20,000 attendees – both private and public. Amongst these, they’ve welcomed the Hepworth Print Fair, Ceramics Fair, and most recently, Peddler Market Wakefield.
The waterfront project is being developed by regeneration specialists CPPI (City & Provincial Properties Investments Ltd) who along with the Council and the West Yorkshire Combined Authority have funded the project.
Paul Kempe, director of CPP, said: “The completion of the frame of the new build is yet another significant moment in time as it forms the final piece of the courtyard and will open up a direct route to the river Calder and all of the additional facilities that will be built around it.
“This will provide further public realm opportunities for Wakefield residents to enjoy and continue to shape and enhance Tileyard North as a destination for the whole community.”
Ben Hall, Yorkshire area director for Morgan Sindall, said: “Our Yorkshire team is based here in Wakefield, and over recent years it’s been a privilege to have worked on so many projects that have helped improve the city’s social, cultural and economic standing.
“Our work at Rutland Mills is no different, and this event was a great opportunity to celebrate the progress our team is making on what will be a new jewel in the crown for the city.”
Phase one of the development includes over 20 music and creative studios, characterful office spaces, much-needed event spaces as well as leisure facilities.
Phase two is underway and includes the restoration of 1 mill building and demolition of 1 building to make space for a new build creative industries office space.
A bid for Levelling Up funding has unlocked £8m for this project and will benefit residents and businesses.
