Summer completion expected for landmark former department store conversion

People have received an unexpectedly early sight of progress to convert the former Co-operative department store in New Street, Huddersfield.

SKA Developments has been working on the prominent art deco structure since 2019, creating luxury student accommodation from the abandoned store.

Storm Malik recently tore down the hoarding, revealing the activities going on behind at what has been named Renaissance Works.

These include a full internal strip-out, re-fit and the addition of three floors together with a restored façade.

Managing director of SKA Developments, Zeb Pervaiz, said: “The damage was limited to the security fencing which was immediately repaired. The building is now in the final stages of its transformation, and it will change this end of New Street completely.”

He added the multi-million pound development, in partnership with Kirklees Council, is improving what had become a local eyesore.

The scheme is expected to be complete in July of this year.