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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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.

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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 Woolshops: A Glimpse into Halifax's Retail Heart

Halifax, West Yorkshire – a town steeped in history, boasts a vibrant town centre that blends the old with the new. At its very core lies The Woolshops, a shopping precinct that, like many others across the UK, tells a fascinating story of evolution, adaptation, and the ongoing challenges faced by high streets today.

More Than Just a Name: A Nod to History

The name "Woolshops" isn't just a catchy moniker; it's a direct homage to the town's rich heritage. Standing proudly to the north-west of the precinct is a magnificent Grade II listed timber building, dating all the way back to 1670. This architectural gem, a tangible link to Halifax's past as a bustling centre for the wool trade, gives the modern shopping centre its distinctive identity. It's a constant reminder that while retail trends may shift, the roots of commerce in this town run deep.

From Arndale Ambitions to Woolshops Reality: A Pivotal Shift

The Woolshops we know today almost never came to be. In the mid-1970s, ambitious plans were afoot for an "Arndale Centre" development in Halifax. This large-scale project, characteristic of its era, would have seen the demolition of numerous historic properties, including the very Tudor house that now lends its name to the Woolshops.

However, fate intervened. By 1979, the Arndale dream dissolved as key anchor tenants withdrew their support. This pivotal moment opened the door for an alternative vision, one that ultimately led to the creation of The Woolshops. It's a testament to how local circumstances and the decisions of major players can dramatically reshape a town's landscape.

Phases of Growth: Adapting and Expanding

The construction of The Woolshops unfolded in phases. Phase 1, completed in 1983, laid the groundwork for the modern shopping experience. Later, in the late 1990s and early 2000s, Phase 2 saw significant expansion. This included the addition of new shops directly opposite the perennial high street favourite, Marks and Spencer, and extending towards the north gate of the iconic Piece Hall, on what was once a car park. These expansions illustrate the continuous effort to revitalise and grow the retail offering within Halifax town centre.

A Quiet Sunday Morning: Reflecting on Retail's Plight

The accompanying photographs, captured on an early Sunday morning in May 2018 with a Nikon d3300, offer a poignant snapshot of The Woolshops. The emptiness depicted in these images serves as a stark visual metaphor for the struggles faced by town centres across the UK.

The reasons for this reduced footfall are multifaceted and complex:

• Restrictive Parking: The cost and availability of parking often deter shoppers who might otherwise prefer the convenience of town centre visits.

• Higher Pricing: The perception, and sometimes reality, of higher prices in brick-and-mortar stores compared to online retailers can steer consumers towards digital alternatives.

• The Shadow of COVID-19: While these photos pre-date the pandemic, the devastating impact of COVID-19 on retail footfall cannot be overstated. Lockdowns, social distancing measures, and a shift in consumer habits profoundly accelerated the challenges already facing high streets.

Looking Ahead: The Future of The Woolshops and Beyond

The Woolshops, with its blend of historical roots and modern retail spaces, embodies the ongoing narrative of British high streets. It's a place where history resonates, but where the present day demands adaptation and innovation. As we navigate the evolving retail landscape, understanding the factors that contribute to both its vibrancy and its quiet moments becomes crucial for shaping the future of our town centres. The story of The Woolshops is, in many ways, the story of our high streets – resilient, evolving, and always a reflection of the communities they serve.

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The centre is named after the building to the left of the picture housing Coffee Cali, the building known as the Woolshops is thought to be amongst the oldest still remaining in Halifax Town Centre. The steps now feature a statue dedicated to the Duke of Wellington's Regiment.

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