Slideshow: Changing face of Dewsbury landmark Pioneer House

Contractors working on Grade II listed Pioneer House have gradually removed scaffolding in recent weeks.

The clock in the tower is also working once again after extensive repairs.

A council spokesman said this week that the first phase of work would be completed soon.

It has included significant repairs to the roof, windows and stonework to make the building waterproof.

Dewsbury Regeneration Board chairman Coun Paul Kane said the feedback he had received had been very supportive.

“People are saying how good it looks, but the first thing they all talk about is the clock and the fact it’s working.

“The building is getting back probably to somewhere near its best and once the internal work is done we’re looking forward to it being fully occupied.”

The first tenant, Connect Housing, is due to move in during September 2014, and talks are ongoing with other potential tenants.

A planning application for six one-bedroom flats in the smaller building bordering Branch Road has also been submitted.

Coun Kane (Lab, Dews East) said: “We took a brave step by making the compulsory purchase order and have put our money where our mouth is.

“We want Pioneer to be a vibrant place and for people to use it in all guises.

“We want businesses in there – retail possibly in the ground floor – and for people to be coming and going as customers.”

He said the council was also working closely with the Heritage Lottery Fund, which has given £2m towards a major revamp of the Northgate area.

• Visit our website to watch a slideshow charting changes to the building since 2006.