Historic mill to become part of landmark creative space following restoration

Henley Restoration and Remedials, a division of Henley Construction Management Group, has been selected to carry out extensive repairs on the Grade II-listed Phoenix Mill, the oldest building in the Rutland Mills complex.

Originally a grain store, Phoenix Mill later became a corn mill in the 19th century before transitioning to a textile mill.

Once restored, the mill will become an integral part of the broader Tileyard North development, marking the final phase of this regeneration project in Wakefield.

Earlier this year, Historic England awarded grant funding to support essential exterior repairs, including roof, drainage, and wall work, as well as the installation of new windows.

This funding has secured the building’s structure, enabling its redevelopment as part of Tileyard North.

The project has also received financial backing from the Government’s Levelling Up Fund (LUF), along with contributions from Wakefield Council and City & Provincial Properties.

Once completed, the mill will anchor a 135,000 sq ft creative space, poised to become the largest creative community in the UK outside London and a catalyst for Wakefield’s cultural and creative industries.

Richard Butterfield, Historic England Yorkshire Partnerships team leader, said: “This project shows how thoughtful regeneration can preserve historic structures while adapting them for contemporary use.

“We are pleased that our grant support has enabled Phoenix Mill to be brought back into use as part of the Tileyard North development, safeguarding an important piece of Wakefield’s history and contributing to the area’s cultural and economic growth.”

Henley Construction Management Group has been actively involved in phase two of the Tileyard scheme, serving as a specialist subcontractor to Stainforth Construction for the brickwork restoration of Calder Mill, which is set to become a boutique hotel, and also as a subcontractor for Morgan Sindall, completing the brickwork package for the new office space within the Tileyard scheme.

Tom Cardoe, managing director of Restoration at Henley Construction Management Group, said: “As a Wakefield-based company with extensive expertise in the restoration of important historical and listed buildings across the UK, we understand the significance of bringing Phoenix Mill back to its historical prominence.

“We are thrilled to be part of the final phase of this development, ensuring the building will be cherished as a key element of a remarkable scheme that enhances our beloved city of Wakefield.”

Shaun Henley, managing director at Henley Construction Management Group, said: “We are excited to be working on Phoenix Mill for Opera Project Management.

“Having played a significant role in phase two of the Tileyard scheme, we are focused on delivering this final phase to the highest quality we demand.”

Joseph Curtis, associate at Opera Project Management, added: “We are pleased to appoint Henley Restoration and Remedials for the restoration of Phoenix Mill.

“Their proven track record and dedication to quality make them the ideal partner for this significant project.

“We are confident their expertise will ensure the preservation of Phoenix Mill’s historical integrity, while transforming it into a modern, creative space that will benefit the entire community.”