More cash awarded to turn derelict mill complex into creative industry hub

Wakefield Council has welcomed funding from Historic England to repair an historic mill as part of the multi-million pound redevelopment of Rutland Mills.

Historic England has awarded £625,000 to help renovate Phoenix Mill, a former textile mill in Wakefield. It forms part of phase two of the multi-million pound redevelopment of the Rutland Mills complex.

The waterside area is being transformed into Tileyard North, a creative industries hub housing state-of-art recording studios, creative workspaces and events venues.

Duncan Wilson, Historic England’s chief executive, said: “After lying derelict for many years, it’s wonderful to see that Phoenix Mill is now rising from the ashes and will soon be given new life as an integral part of the fantastic Tileyard North.

“I applaud the bold vision of City and Provincial Properties who have rescued an important part of Wakefield’s industrial heritage and reshaped it into an engine of the town’s future prosperity.”

Paul Kempe, from City and Provincial Properties, said: “We extend our thanks to Historic England for the awarding of this invaluable grant, igniting the transformation of Phoenix Mill.

“With their generous support, we eagerly anticipate breathing new life into this historic gem, creating more space for our creative industries hub to grow.”

Wakefield Council has enabled the project from inception, with funding also provided by the Government’s Levelling Up Programme (LUF) and City and Provincial Properties.

This is seeing the refurbishment of Phoenix Mill along with demolition of a second mill and construction of a new building alongside, called Gradient Mill. Further office space along with bars and a restaurant will be created.

Historic England’s £625,000 grant will fund work to the outside of the building including roof, drainage and wall repairs, as well as new windows.

Phase one of the scheme saw the restoration of five mill buildings. It has created space for creative industries, music studios, outdoor events space, indoor events, space for festivals and concerts, a hotel, gin distillery, restaurant and bar.

Councillor Michael Graham, cabinet member for regeneration and economic growth at Wakefield Council, said: “This is part our wider regeneration plans for Wakefield.

“Our programme is attracting external investment from across the public and private sector, making a positive impact as we position our district as a great place to do business.”