Dewsbury Arcade celebrates over 5,000 visitors on opening day - with national art exhibition coming soon
Dewsbury Arcade celebrated its historic return with over 5,000 visitors flocking to the town centre for its grand re-opening - and more events are planned for the very near future.
The Grade II Listed building was officially re-opened on Saturday, September 5 after it was restored as the UK’s first community-owned shopping arcade, housing 16 smaller shops and four larger units, whilst its dedicated event and community rooms will officially launch in October, kicking off with a major national art exhibition.
Key dignitaries and community figures attended the landmark opening day, including the Mayor of Kirklees, coun Karen Allison, acclaimed stained-glass artist Martin Donlin, Baroness Sayeeda Warsi, and Carol Pyrah, Trustee and Chair of the England, North Committee at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, with Baroness Warsi performing the official ribbon cutting, while Carol Pyrah unveiled the official Heritage Fund plaques.
The early crowds were rewarded as the first 50 people through the gates at 10am snapped up exclusive Arcade goodie bags, while creative activity filled the space through MakerWorld craft workshops, where attendees created beautiful stained-glass crafts.
Reflecting on the incredible turnout, Jenny Holden-Stokes, Manager of The Arcade, said: “To see over 5,000 people filling The Arcade, smiling, shopping, and celebrating together was beyond anything we could have hoped for.
“The atmosphere was electric from the moment the doors opened. This restoration has been a true labour of love for the community, and seeing the building buzzing with life again proves just how much this space means to the people of Dewsbury.”
Helen Featherstone of The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “With thanks to National Lottery players, we are delighted to have helped bring this amazing heritage building back to life and see it restored to its former glory with its beautiful roof and ironwork.
“ At the Heritage Fund, we don’t define heritage but let communities tell us what they hold dear. Dewsbury Arcade is clearly close to many people’s hearts. It is a credit to all those involved to see their ambition achieved with independent retailers open for business and The Arcade bustling with people once again.”
Dewsbury Arcade Group has also confirmed that since the launch conversations have taken place with local businesses looking to take the remaining units.