Dean Clough, Halifax
Dean Clough is a major centre for employment and the arts in Halifax. Its renaissance from the former glory days as one of the largest carpet manufacturers in the World to the present day where some 4000 people are employed on the site in a wide range of businesses is one of the success stories of recent times. The transformation of the former production mills to house new offices and the arts with other uses including a hotel, restaurants, cafe and post office, has been a gradual process. Individual mill buildings have been refurbished and bought up to date with new central facilities providing excellent accommodation for both large and small businesses. The continuing pressure on car parking facilities, which is largely provided by 'land-hungry' surface car parks, led to a strategic masterplan for the site being prepared by Simon whilst at
The continuing pressure on car parking facilities, which is largely provided by 'land-hungry' surface car parks, led to a strategic masterplan for the site being prepared by Simon whilst at careyjones architects. This strategic study gave a review of the existing site including car parking numbers, location and access as well as existing and perceived future requirements. A range of short, medium and
This strategic study gave a review of the existing site including car parking numbers, location and access as well as existing and perceived future requirements. A range of short, medium and long term solutions were evolved that included the use of former industrial sheds and yardage, as well as options for multi-level car parks utilising the sites topography.
The opportunity for a range of new buildings set alongside the existing stone mill ranges was also investigated. The proposals envisaged a number of new buildings set at 90 degrees to the existing, creating a series of landscaped squares/courtyards, greatly enhancing the public realm of the whole with opportunities for further cafe/restaurant usage and small scale retail to enliven the site.
Investigation was undertaken to look at the potential for a new access into Dean Clough from the main highway. This received initial support from the Council and had the advantage of spreading the highway load across the local network.
A key element of the strategic study was to retain the essence of Dean Clough as it exists with the magnificent listed stone mill ranges retained as the heart and soul. Proposals had to improve on the existing with the potential to significantly add to Dean Clough's unique qualities, whilst retaining that essential feeling of "place".