Property Investment Fund backing for transformation of ‘iconic’ Huddersfield building

A long-neglected building in the centre of Huddersfield is set for a residential transformation.

Property firm SKA Developments will turn the disused Co-op building at 103 New Street into student accomodation with the help of a loan from Kirklees Council.

The authority awarded planning permission for the project earlier this year, but with its cabinet having this week (August 21) approved the Property Investment Fund loan, SKA’s refurbishment can get underway.

The company will create a three-storey extension on the existing building to deliver 135 student bedrooms across 75 apartments.

The units will feature a mix of one- and two-bed studios with communal kitchens and lounges areas, as well as self-contained one-bed apartments.

Zeb Pervaiz, director of Huddersfield-based SKA Developments, said: “We take great pride in being able to transform this site, which will be brought back to life thanks to our investment and the loan provided by the Property Investment Fund.

“Kirklees Council have been really supportive of our project, and we look forward to working closely with them to deliver this scheme.”

How the building could look

Zeb continued: “We’ve worked towards this goal for more than six years, so to see it finally come to fruition is fantastic.

“SKA has developed a unique brand and this development provides a great opportunity to deliver an iconic project in the heart of the town, and one that the whole community can be proud of.”

Cllr Graham Turner, Kirklees Council’s Cabinet Member for Corporate Services, commented: “The prominent position of this particular building has a negative impact on Huddersfield. It has been a difficult site for a number of years and we welcome a local company developing it.

“We are pleased to be utilising the Property Investment Fund, which was created as part of our commitment to regeneration in a very difficult financial climate.”

He added: “This scheme will not only revitalise a disused building. It will also bring more residential property into the town centre, boosting the local economy.”

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