New building completed at Wakefield waterfront has world-class facilities
Wednesday, November 20, 2024
Wakefield Council has welcomed the completion of Gradient Mill – part of the multi-million regeneration of Wakefield’s waterfront.
"I am very happy to see the work completed and Gradient Mill opened as part of Tileyard North’s transformation of the historic waterfront area.
“This will offer world class facilities to artists and creatives based right across the north of England.
“It will support businesses and the economy and provide a vibrant space for residents and visitors to enjoy.”
Cllr Denise Jeffery
Leader of Wakefield Council
"This brilliant redevelopment supports our ambitious plans for the city centre. As a place that offers new opportunities for businesses and residents, and inspires creativity and access to culture. And an amazing place to live, work and visit.”
Cllr Michael Graham
Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Growth
A ribbon cutting event was held to mark the completion of work and handover of Gradient Mill. It features a vibrant mix of spaces for hospitality venues and four floors of flexible workspaces accommodating teams and individuals.
Paul Kempe, Owner & Co-Founder of Tileyard North said: “The handover of Gradient Mill marks a pivotal milestone in the project’s journey, supporting the transformation of Wakefield’s Waterfront into a thriving creative hub.
“This is an exciting time for Tileyard North, as it opens the door to new opportunities for growth and innovation in our community. We want to celebrate and extend our gratitude to everyone who contributed to making this vision a reality and the collaborations that have been instrumental in bringing this development to life.”
Gradient Mill is part of the final phase of the Tileyard North development and reflects the site’s ongoing commitment to transforming Wakefield into a thriving hub for the creative industries and local community.
The building includes new communal spaces and amenities, making it a destination for businesses, freelancers, and creatives.
The project is the final piece in a masterplan that turns Wakefield’s historic riverside into becoming a significant cultural destination in the North of England.
For information
The overall project is regenerating the Grade II-listed former Rutland Mills on the historic waterfront into the largest creative community outside of London, bringing together people across West Yorkshire working in industries such as music, film, television, and design.
Phase one of the scheme saw the restoration of five mill buildings. It has created space for creative industries, music studios, outdoor events space, indoor events, space for festivals and concerts, a hotel, gin distillery, restaurant and bar.
Wakefield Council has enabled the project from inception, with funding also provided by the Government’s Levelling Up Programme (LUF) and City and Provincial Properties.
The Council successfully put forward a very strong bid for Levelling Up funding that has unlocked £8m for this project and will benefit residents and businesses.
Wakefield Council’s City Centre Masterplan sets out how the city centre will be transformed into a vibrant city for the future and an even better place to live, work, visit and invest. This long-term plan aims to bring new opportunities for businesses and residents, open up access to culture and bring different uses and experiences into the heart of the district, including leisure and education facilities.
Opening of Gradient Mill
