Member Article

This historic Dewsbury pub could be given a new lease of life

Mood Developments, which specialises in the refurbishment of Heritage pubs, could bring back to life a key town centre building in Dewsbury, West Yorkshire.

Having purchased the former Black Bull pub in the centre of town, a full refurbishment will take place and sights are set on an opening at the end of 2018.

With a plan to preserve the heritage features of the building, the company will look to apply for a Townscape Heritage Initiative (THI) grant for assistance.

The Dewsbury Townscape Heritage Initiative (THI) is a five-year, Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) regeneration programme, jointly funded with Kirklees Council which aims to stimulate economic activity as well as raising awareness of Dewsbury’s heritage through training and education.

It is hoped that the investment will help to boost the economy and profile of the town, as well as attracting new businesses.

Cllr Peter McBride, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, said: “We are delighted to welcome Mood Developments to the town, and I look forward to seeing the development of what has always been an iconic building.

“The Townscape Heritage initiative aims to create a smart and welcoming environment by improving and enhancing the quality of Dewsbury’s heritage buildings, and it sounds like Mood Development have similar aims for the old pub, so hopefully, we will be able to support them with a grant.

“We are really beginning to see a positive change taking place in Dewsbury. The THI has improved the appearance of a number of buildings and Pioneer House is well on the way to being redeveloped as part of the new Dewsbury Learning Quarter, re-opening the Black Bull would be a wonderful addition to this.”

Recent projects undertaken by Mood Developments include 92 & 93 Kirkgate in Leeds, both of which have been recognised as successful schemes in bringing some life back to the historic buildings.

Peter Mason of Mood Developments said: ’We are excited to begin the physical restoration of the pub and will be using local services, labour and products throughout the delivery. We have noticed a gap in the Dewsbury market for a heritage pub and hope to bring this back to the residents.

“We see it as a perfect time to invest in Dewsbury, and capitalise on the investment taking place in North Kirklees. The town is in a great location for commuting into places like Leeds and Manchester, and with the Council looking to increase housing and encourage more businesses, there is a real buzz in the town centre and community.”