Plans unveiled for redevelopment of ‘long under-utilised’ waterfront quarter

Proposals to re-develop the “long under-utilised” waterfront in Huddersfield have been unveiled.

The Greater Waterfront Quarter plans, created by SKA Developments, include a mixed-use development. The vision for the scheme sets out provision for housing, business, artisan shops, leisure facilities, community attractions and a health centre. The development’s buildings could be eight to fifteen stories high on the waterfront extremity of the site, with three to five storey building on the St. Thomas’ Road side.

SKA Developments owns the majority of the land earmarked for development off St. Thomas’ Road, and is working with site neighbours and other stakeholders to develop the plans.

The company said that pedestrian movement and the improvement of cycling provision will sit at the heart of the development, helping to reduce the need for vehicular access.

Housing types are set to be varied, including a range of affordable units, a potential retirement village, hotel, student accommodation, co-living space and high-value general housing.

SKA Developments will present the scheme at MIPIM in Cannes next week, where it will also look for project partners.

Zeb Pervaiz, SKA Developments’ managing director, said: “Our vision for the Greater Waterfront Quarter has been years in the planning, and we’ve worked closely with our partners, Kirklees Council and the Leeds City Region to design a scheme that will be both remarkable and truly transformational.

“The waterfront in Huddersfield is a long under-utilised asset, and through the creation of a village with the River Colne and the Canal at its heart, we hope to create something very special. We’re attending MIPIM to look for partners to help us deliver this exciting project and unlock potential funding that can realise returns as early as 2022.”

Roger Marsh OBE, chair of Leeds City Region Enterprise Partnership, which co-ordinates the City Region’s presence at MIPIM, added: “This year we will use MIPIM, arguably one of the most important international economic development conferences, as a springboard to invite the world to discover the huge opportunities in Leeds City Region, and this project epitomises the strength and vision we have on offer.”

“I am very impressed with the plans for the Greater Waterfront Quarter and the energy and vision of SKA Developments, which will be fundamental in helping to bring this development to life.”

Cllr Shabir Pandor, leader of Kirklees Council, added: “SKA Developments have a proven track-record of delivering exceptional schemes within Huddersfield and have played an important role in regenerating the Town.

“Not only will SKA’s plans transform a brownfield site, but it will also improve connectivity between the waterfront and the Town and help to increase the vibrancy of the town-centre, through the delivery of another impressive scheme. We’ll work closely with their team, assisting wherever possible, to help deliver a development that can benefit all our stakeholders, and I personally look forward to supporting their plans at MIPIM.”