Exploring the Heart of Halifax: A Stroll Through Westgate Arcade

 Halifax is a town steeped in history, where cobbled streets and grand Victorian architecture whisper stories of a rich industrial past. Tucked away within this historic fabric lies a modern gem that seamlessly blends old and new: Westgate Arcade. This vibrant, covered walkway, captured beautifully in a series of photographs from May 27th, 2018, offers a fascinating glimpse into a thoughtful urban regeneration project.

A History of Transformation

Westgate itself is one of Halifax's most ancient thoroughfares. Originally conceived to provide a vital link to the iconic Piece Hall—a stunning Georgian cloth hall—the street's creation was no simple task, even requiring an Act of Parliament. It was a route that connected Southgate to Market Street, leading towards the Piece Hall's western gate. For many years, however, the area remained largely underdeveloped and quiet, its potential waiting to be unlocked.

The late 1990s marked a turning point. A vision emerged to revitalise this forgotten corner of the town centre. Several properties were acquired, and an ambitious plan was unveiled to transform the area into a bustling, covered pedestrian arcade. This plan included integrating Carrier Street, creating a seamless connection to the nearby Borough Market, and breathing new life into the urban space.

In 2006, the vision became a reality. Westgate Arcade was completed, and the glass-roofed structure became an instant hit. The pictures, taken on a bright spring day with a Nikon D3300, perfectly capture the essence of this transformation. The clear, modern glass and steel structure stands in beautiful contrast to the historic brick buildings that flank it.

A Modern Hub for Independent Businesses

What makes Westgate Arcade so special is not just its striking architecture but the community it fosters. The arcade has become a welcome addition to the Halifax scene, serving as a hub for a diverse mix of independent shops, leisure outlets, and bars.

As you look at the photographs, you can almost feel the atmosphere. The shot of the Carrier Street entrance, framed by lush green potted plants, invites you into a serene and inviting space. The interior view shows the length of the arcade, adorned with strings of Union Jack bunting—a festive touch that adds to the welcoming feel. Signs for unique businesses like "Dolly Peg" and "K.S. Hunjan Dental Practice" hint at the variety of services available, from bespoke retail to essential healthcare.

The external views from Southgate and Market Street reveal how the arcade's design respects and complements its surroundings. The striking A-frame glass entrance serves as a beacon, drawing people in from the main street. The photographs taken from the Southgate and Market Street entrances show the arcade nestled between traditional stone buildings, a perfect marriage of old and new. The sun catches the glass roof, casting geometric shadows on the paved walkway and highlighting the intricate design.

A Timeless Snapshot

These images, captured by a keen eye on a pleasant day in 2018, are more than just pictures of a building. They are a timeless snapshot of a community space that has successfully adapted to the demands of modern urban life while honouring its historic roots. Westgate Arcade is a testament to the power of thoughtful development—a place where history is not erased but built upon, creating a vibrant and welcoming destination for locals and visitors alike. It's a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the true heart of Halifax.

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From Loom to Legacy: The Unfolding Story of Dean Clough

Step back in time to the heart of Halifax, West Yorkshire, and you'll find a monumental testament to Britain's industrial past: Dean Clough Mills. Today, it's a bustling hub of commerce, arts, and culture, but its origins are rooted in the very fabric of the Industrial Revolution. This isn't just a collection of old buildings; it's a living museum, a phoenix risen from the ashes of a bygone era.

The Crossley's Carpet Kingdom

In its heyday, Dean Clough was home to a globally dominant enterprise. Built by the Crossley family, who founded Crossley's Carpets, the complex expanded rapidly between 1840 and 1869. The first mill was built in 1802, and the family's foresight and ambition transformed a small valley into an industrial powerhouse. At one point, Dean Clough was the largest carpet mill in the world. Imagine the sheer scale: thousands of workers, the rhythmic clatter of looms, and mountains of wool and yarn being transformed into carpets that graced homes across the globe. The mills were more than just a workplace; they were the lifeblood of the local community. The sheer size of the buildings, as seen in the photos, hints at the immense scale of this operation.

Decline and Rebirth

The golden age of Dean Clough wouldn't last forever. In 1970, Crossley's Carpets moved its headquarters to Kidderminster, a sign of changing times. Faced with declining sales and fierce competition from cheaper imports, the looms fell silent for good in 1982, leaving a massive, derelict site. It could've been the end of the story, with the buildings left to decay like so many others from that era. However, a remarkable transformation was on the horizon.

In 1983, two visionaries, Sir Ernest Hall and Jonathan Silver, saw potential where others saw ruin. They bought the complex and set about turning it into the Dean Clough Galleries and Industrial Park. While their partnership was short-lived, with Sir Ernest Hall taking the reins a year later, his commitment has been unwavering. To date, he has invested over £20 million into the redevelopment. The vast, empty sheds were repurposed into essential parking spaces, and the Victorian buildings were meticulously restored. The resulting space is now a vibrant mixed-use development.

Modern-Day Marvels

Today, Dean Clough is a thriving ecosystem. Over 150 companies have made it their home, ranging from small start ups to established businesses. But its purpose extends far beyond commerce. The complex now features a hotel, leisure facilities, restaurants, and the renowned Viaduct Theatre. This blending of old and new is what makes Dean Clough so captivating. The imposing brickwork of the old mills now stands alongside modern infrastructure, creating a unique and compelling architectural landscape. The presence of the large, metal sheep sculpture adds a touch of quirky art that pays homage to the site's wool and textile history.

The redevelopment of Dean Clough is a shining example of how industrial heritage can be preserved and repurposed for the 21st century. It's a reminder that even when an industry dies, its spirit can live on, transforming a relic of the past into a beacon of the future. The next time you find yourself in Halifax, take a walk through Dean Clough. You'll be treading the same paths where a global empire was built, and witnessing a legacy that continues to unfold.

I took these pictures with a Polaroid is2132 camera in May 2015, clicking on any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green photography store on Zazzle.

All the pictures can be seen in the YouTube slideshow below.

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A Glimpse into the Past: The Piece Hall, Halifax (Pre-Refurbishment)

Before its stunning transformation into a vibrant modern destination, The Piece Hall in Halifax held a different, yet equally captivating, charm. Built as the last remaining cloth hall in the United Kingdom, this historic edifice has witnessed centuries of change. It's truly remarkable to think that in 1972, there were even discussions about demolishing this incredible piece of heritage!

I had the opportunity to capture some images of The Piece Hall on December 1, 2013, using my Samsung Galaxy Tablet. These photos offer a fascinating snapshot of the hall just prior to its multi-million-pound refurbishment, providing a glimpse into its character before it became the multi-purpose leisure and shopping hub we know today.

The Courtyard: A Canvas Awaiting Renewal

The courtyard in 2013, as seen in the images, was spacious and somewhat austere, with its vast expanse of paving. There were picnic benches scattered around, suggesting it was already a place for people to gather, albeit perhaps more casually. A large Christmas tree stood proudly in the centre, hinting at the festive spirit that still permeated the old hall even then. You can spot a temporary stage in some shots, indicating that events were held, but the overall impression was one of historical grandeur waiting to be fully awakened.

The various angles of the courtyard showcase the impressive architecture, with its countless windows and the repeating rhythm of the colonnades. The surrounding hills provide a dramatic backdrop, reminding us of Halifax's unique setting.

Architectural Details and Hidden Gems

Walking through the balcony walkways, captured in one of the black and white images, you can truly appreciate the sheer scale of the building. The long corridors, lined with pillars and windows, evoke a sense of history and the countless footsteps that have traversed these paths over the centuries.

And then there's the delightful surprise of the stairwell artwork! This vibrant and whimsical mural, with its trees, birds, and hot air balloons, adds a splash of colour and playfulness that might not be immediately associated with a grand Georgian building. It's a wonderful example of the character and unexpected artistic touches that existed within the hall before its modern overhaul. The "DANGER-WARNING" sign about small children squeezing through the railings also adds a touch of bygone charm and a reminder of public safety concerns even back then.

The Gates: A Welcome to History

The North and West Gates, with their imposing facades, served as the primary entry points. In 2013, the North Gate prominently displayed "The Piece Hall Halifax" and "Britain's oldest remaining Cloth Hall, Opened January 1st 1779," clearly emphasizing its historical significance. The West Gate also shared this information, along with details about the available shops, galleries, and tourist information. These entrances, while grand, perhaps didn't hint at the bustling vibrancy that would come to define them after the refurbishment.

Looking back at these images, it's clear that The Piece Hall, even before its recent transformation, was a place of immense historical importance and quiet beauty. While the refurbishment has undoubtedly brought new life and opportunities, these 2013 photographs serve as a valuable record of a moment in its long and fascinating journey. They remind us of the layers of history contained within its walls and how a vision, even when faced with calls for demolition, can save and re-imagine a truly iconic landmark.

Clicking any of the images below should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

The North Gate, this and the South Gate were the original entrances
to the Hall, the West Gate being added in 1785 and the east Gate during the
hall's recent refurbishment.

The former cobbled courtyard, with the spire of Square Church visible.
The hall has offered a number of concerts since re-opening, the stage in it's 
pre refurbishment history offered token entertainment.

The halls balcony areas featured a number of shops in 2013, today
there are still a number shops, eateries and bars surrounding the
courtyard. This was the western area of the hall.

Looking across the then cobbled courtyard towards the south
western corner.

The west gate entrance to the hall, this was added in 1785.

The south eastern corner of the hall, the South Gate seen in the
middle of the picture, this is often used as the halls main access
point, the bridge raises up to allow larger vehicle entry.

The balcony area that surrounds the courtyard, this was taken from the
south eastern corner looking west. 

Artwork in one of the halls corner stairwells.

The north western corner of the Piece Hall.

Looking north east across the cobbled courtyard. The north gate
was once considered the halls main entrance, this was changed
in 1785 when the west gate opened.

The halls north gate seen across the courtyard.

The Piece Hall's South Gate, the hall and area around the gate was
recently filmed as part of a Marvel's Secret Invasion production, doubling as an
Eastern European Country

One of the halls corner stairwells.

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The Ever-Evolving Heart of Halifax: The Piece Hall, A Photographic Journey

Some landmarks aren't just bricks and mortar; they're living chronicles, evolving with the pulse of a community. For me, The Piece Hall in Halifax is one such place. Being right on my doorstep has allowed me to witness its incredible transformations first hand, not just as a casual observer, but through the lens of a camera.

From Humble Beginnings to a Photographic Passion

My photographic journey with The Piece Hall began in December 2013. Back then, I was a nascent enthusiast, armed with just a Samsung Tablet. My aim was to capture the hall before it closed its doors in January 2014 for a monumental £19 million, three-year restoration project. Little did I know that this initial visit would spark a deeper interest in photography, prompting me to return in 2017 after its grand reopening. The difference was astonishing – from a tired, aging space to a vibrant hub of shopping, leisure, and community.

A Tapestry of History: The Piece Hall Through the Ages

Opened on January 1st, 1779, The Piece Hall was originally conceived as a bustling marketplace for local cloth traders. Imagine the clamour of merchants, the rustle of fabrics, and the vibrant exchange of goods that once filled its grand courtyard. However, as the textile industry modernized and industrialized, the hall's traditional role waned. In 1868, it was acquired by the Halifax Corporation and soon converted into a wholesale market, a function it maintained until 1971. At this point, with the wholesale market dispersed, the unthinkable was considered: demolition.

Thankfully, this fate was averted. After a period of refurbishment, the hall reopened on July 3rd, 1976, reborn as a tourist destination featuring shops, a museum, and an art gallery, along with an outdoor market. Yet, visitor numbers once again began to decline. This led the Calderdale Council to devise a comprehensive plan, securing funding from various sources for another extensive refurbishment. The hall closed its doors to the public on January 16th, 2014, for its much-anticipated three-year transformation.

The grand reopening on August 1st, 2017, coinciding with Yorkshire Day, marked a new era for The Piece Hall. Today, it’s a thriving space offering restaurants, bars, shops, and live entertainment, including music concerts. It even proudly served as the starting point for the renowned Tour de Yorkshire.

A Heritage Protected: Grade I Listed Status

The Piece Hall's significance extends far beyond its commercial history. On November 3rd, 1954, it was granted Grade I listed status, a testament to its exceptional historical, architectural, and cultural importance. The reasons cited were compelling:

• Historic interest: Its unique role in the cloth trade.
• Rarity: It stands as the only remaining cloth hall in Yorkshire.
• Architectural interest: Its distinctive and impressive design.
• Architectural layout: The remarkable and innovative structure of the building itself.

Overlooking the hall are Beacon Hill and the spire of the Square Church. Only the spire remains of the church, damaged by fire and partially demolished in the 1970s, now forming an integral part of the recently opened Halifax Central Library.

Whispers of the Past: Supernatural Tales and Enduring Mysteries

Like many old buildings, The Piece Hall isn't without its share of intriguing supernatural stories. One of the units in the southwest corner is said to be haunted by the ghost of a young girl known as Amy. The popular TV show Derek Acorah's Ghost Towns even broadcast from the hall in March 2006, with Acorah claiming to have made contact with spirits named Mary and Joseph in the cellars.

Another enduring mystery surrounds the Hand Prints at the Westgate entrance. Though sadly less visible than they once were, these prints have spawned numerous local legends. Some believe they were left by a local witch, while a more widely known story suggests they were imprinted by a murderer making his desperate escape. These tales add another layer of intrigue to an already fascinating historical landmark.

My most recent photographic outing to The Piece Hall was on October 12th, 2019, using a Nikon D3300. These images, along with others taken on various occasions with different cameras, aim to capture the enduring spirit and evolving beauty of this remarkable building. 

Clicking any of the images below should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

The pictures below were taken with a Samsung Galaxy Tablet on the 1st December 2013. This was before the halls refurbishment.

The following pictures were taken on the 20th October 2018 with a Nikon d3300.

The following pictures were taken with a Nikon d3300 on the 3rd October 2017.

This final set of pictures was taken with a Nikon d3300 on the 22nd September 2019.

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All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.