Huddersfield – Kingsgate
Project Brief.
“…planning consent obtained for 110,000 sq ft extension” This is a new build scheme designed from conception by WD who won a Local Authority Tender to develop this 300,000 net square ft town centre shopping complex, along with associated car parking. The scheme’s construction, funding, letting and opening were undertaken exclusively by WD. Kingsgate opened in March 2002 and has become the prime retail location in Huddersfield, being anchored by well known retail outlets that include House of Fraser, Next and high street names such as River Island, Burton,Waterstones and TK Maxx. In 2008 WD obtained outline planning consent at appeal for a new, 110,000 square ft extension to the existing centre. WD via its principal shareholders directly owns over 85% of this project and it remains a key part of WD’s activities. During 2011 WD undertook a £2 million redevelopment and roof expansion to enable the creation of a new H&M store adjacent to House of Fraser. In 2012 WD signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Council to expand and explore the options that Phase 2 presents in the current economic environment. More recently Topshop have relocated to Kingsgate occupying the previous HMV store, consolidating and reinforcing Kingsgate as the Centre of Huddersfield and as a top 100 location.