Mechanics Institute - Expression of Interest
We’re inviting expressions of interest for the lease and operation of the former Mechanics Institute / Kingdom Hall building on Sagar Street in Castleford. Local groups are especially encouraged to apply.
The building is currently being redesigned to create a modern and welcoming community space. Once refurbished it will give a dynamic organisation the chance to establish a community focussed service in the heart of Castleford.
The refurbishment of the building is part of the wider Town’s Fund regeneration work taking place in Castleford. Including improvements on Sagar Street where the building is located. Investment in the town centre. And changes along the riverside, including at Queen’s Mill.
Breathing new life into the former Mechanics Institute building is part of plans that will help Castleford realise its potential as a distinctive, riverside market town.
About the building
The original Mechanics Institute is Castleford’s oldest intact structure. In more recent years it has served as a place of worship for the Jehovah’s Witnesses community.
The building is being transformed into a modern, accessible space. Once complete it will provide multi-functional facilities with both commercial and community potential.
That will make it an ideal place for a range of group activities, meetings, and events.
About the space
View full floorplans of the building
Ground Floor
Five rooms of various sizes suitable for intimate gatherings, workshops, counselling services, training and meetings.
First Floor
A large, open-plan area perfect for training courses, conferences, community groups, fitness classes, social events, and clubs.
Breakout Area
A modern, relaxed space for informal conversations, networking, or as a resting spot between activities.
Lift Access
Full accessibility with a lift providing easy access between floors.
The uses
This versatile building will provide opportunities for new and existing groups to come together in a town centre location. It could offer opportunities for youth groups, elderly services, amateur dramatic societies, crafting clubs, collaborative working groups, counselling services, and many more. It’s been designed to support as many local groups as possible.
Our expectations
Wakefield Council and Castleford Heritage Trust want to work with interested parties to see the building brought back into use. We are aiming to find an organisation or group with a strong sense of community and a passion for Castleford.
As a community-based Trust, Castleford Heritage Trust has established relationships within the local community. They are excited to work alongside the organisation which acquires the lease to make use of these connections.
The building holds historical and heritage prominence for Castleford. And there is an expectation that interested parties will work actively to support this, whether that be through participation in Heritage open days (typically taking place annually in September) or working with the Castleford Heritage Trust or Castleford Civic Society.
Terms of the lease will be finalised with the successful applicant. The Council are not able to subsidise interested groups or organisations, meaning anyone applying for the lease will need to be able to be financially self-sustaining.
Interested parties will need to show how they will generate sustainable income via commercial operations. While also balancing opportunities to provide low-cost or free access to start-up groups, charities, and non-profit organisations.
Our priority is for the building to benefit the community, and we are open to negotiating terms for an agreement that deliver this.
The lease holder will have full responsibility for the day-to-day operation of the building. This will include, but not be limited to, marketing, scheduling, bookings, staffing, and maintenance.
Growth and Development
The successful party will be expected to establish financial and operational targets and submit a business plan for growth for an initial period of up to five years.
Applicants should present innovative ideas for expanding the building’s reach with Castleford’s local groups. Proposals should include plans for outreach so that the building is a well-used and valuable asset for residents and organisations.
Wakefield Council’s Communities team will provide contact with existing local groups. But you must be able to outline your vision for growth. This will be key to the success of your proposal.
Contract Details
Initial Contract Length
5 years (with opportunities for renewal based on performance).
Self-sustaining Model
The lease holder will be responsible for all financial aspects of the building, including generating income and covering operational and maintenance costs, while managing the lease as per the agreement with Wakefield Council.
Council Support
Wakefield Council is committed to the success of this project and is open to discussing terms and conditions that will contribute to that objective.
Submitting Your Proposal
The application process will take the form of a single stage application. Please complete the application form.
We are looking for ambitious, organisations (with a community focus) to present their vision for maximising the use of the newly regenerated building.
How to submit your application
Please submit your application to Helen Miller at helenmiller@wakefield.gov.uk.
Deadline for submission: Noon (12pm), Monday 9 June 2025.
Site visits can be arranged if required.