Listed property to become multi-use venue with restoration’s first stage complete
Work is under way to breathe new life into Wakefield’s Old Crown Court building.
The project is designed to ceate a commercial and cultural destination at the heart of the city’s Civic Quarter.
The 200-year-old grade II listed building is set to include a bar and restaurant, workspace, community hall, and creative studios.
Councillor Matthew Pinder, Wakefield Council’s cabinet member for district regeneration and regional growth, has met with developers to witness progress on the building.
He said: “Between meeting the Rushbond team and visiting the site, I am extremely excited that the people of Wakefield will once again be able to enjoy one of the most historical, architecturally beautiful buildings in our city for generations to come.
“I’m really looking forward to seeing this building brought back to life. It will support a range of future uses – and will also be a big boost to civic pride.
“The project is progressing really well. It remains on track for delivery early next year and I will continue to keep a keen eye on progress.”
Yorkshire-based developer Rushbond, in collaboration with Wakefield Council, is driving the reinvention of the 25,000 sq ft building.
The Court House is designed by Group Ginger and is being delivered on site by Mulberry Construction Group. It follows Mulberry’s conversion of the Old Police Station into apartments, across the road from the Old Crown Court.
Jonathan Maud, founder and chairman of Rushbond, said: “When complete, the Court House will be a place for the people at the heart of city, where they can work, create and spend time.
“This building that once represented civic authority will become a welcoming and creative space for the people of Wakefield and the region to enjoy.
“Together with the new homes we are delivering close by and the council’s wider regeneration plans, we’re cultivating a new era for Wakefield city centre, elevating its growing reputation as a modern place to live, work and play.”
Built in 1810 and extended in the 19th century, the Old Crown Court has been empty since the early 1990s.
Restoration of the historic internal fabric has completed, and work will continue to upgrade and modernise the interiors, including installing a sustainable ventilation and heating system.
Rushbond appointed Mulberry to carry out the work as part of its wider regeneration of the Civic Quarter.
Redevelopment of the Old Crown Court is expected to finish in early 2027, with the property opening to the public soon after.
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