Work is progressing on the transformation of the grade II listed Victorian building, which has stood empty since 2016.

Purchased by Kirklees council in 2020, the historical building is being transformed into the UK’s first community run shopping centre, part of the council’s plan to regenerate the town centre.

The most recent update on the renovation is that the first sample of a shop unit has been put in place inside, showcasing the potential for businesses and the retail opportunities that will come with the project.

This includes the installation of a new boiler and mechanical and electrical systems.

Cllr Graham Turner, Cabinet Member for Finance and Regeneration for Kirklees Council, said: “Work is continuing to progress on this iconic building where we are not only preserving its rich history but also creating exciting future opportunities for businesses and entrepreneurs.

“It is great to see the work starting on the sample unit as this will give businesses, shoppers, and residents a small glimpse into the future.

“Restoring Dewsbury Arcade is one of the key steps in bringing the Dewsbury Blueprint to life — creating a lively, welcoming place where people feel proud to live, work, shop, and spend time. This project is just one part of regenerating the town and ensuring that historic spaces continue to serve our communities for generations to come.”

Some of the other key features include the installation of new steel trusses, new Velux windows to provide more natural light, as well as the stone lettering spelling out Arcade on the Marketplace side being restored, highlighting the building’s historical importance to the town.

The next planned major milestone is the restoration of the building’s glazed roof, one of it’s most recognizable features, and will be central to the building’s look and feel once reopened.

Works to restore the building began in March 2024, and had an initial target completion of June 2025, however rot and decay uncovered during the construction work has delayed the project.

Work for the renovation of the Arcade is funded by multiple ways. £4.5 million has come from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, there are Town Deal grants managed by the Dewsbury Neighbourhood Board, support from the Getting Building Fund from West Yorkshire Combined Authority, and capital funding from the council.