Henley Restoration and Remedials, a key division of Henley Construction Management Group in Wakefield—has been selected to carry out extensive external and structural repairs on the Grade II-listed Phoenix Mill, the oldest building in the Rutland Mills complex. Originally a grain store, Phoenix Mill later became a corn mill in the 19th century before transitioning to a textile mill. The building holds significant historical value as a symbol of Yorkshire’s industrial evolution, particularly in the wool industry. Once restored, the mill will become an integral part of the broader Tileyard North development, marking the final phase of this ambitious regeneration project in Wakefield.
Earlier this year, Historic England awarded grant funding to support essential exterior repairs, including roof, drainage, and wall work, as well as the installation of new windows. This funding has secured the building’s structure, enabling its redevelopment as part of Tileyard North. The project has also received financial backing from the government’s Levelling Up Fund (LUF), along with contributions from Wakefield Council and City & Provincial Properties. Together, these key partners are transforming Phoenix Mill, and once completed, the mill will anchor a 135,000 sq. ft. creative space, poised to become the largest creative community in the UK outside of London and a major catalyst for Wakefield’s cultural and creative industries.
Richard Butterfield, Historic England Yorkshire Partnerships Team Leader, said:
“This project shows how thoughtful regeneration can preserve historic structures while adapting them for contemporary use. We are pleased that our grant support has enabled Phoenix Mill to be brought back into use as part of the Tileyard North development, safeguarding an important piece of Wakefield’s history and contributing to the area’s cultural and economic growth.”
Left: Calder Mill, soon to be transformed into a boutique hotel; Middle: Phoenix Mill, currently under restoration; Rear: New office development, Gradient Mill.
Henley Construction Management Group’s involvement in the restoration of Phoenix Mill highlights their continued commitment to heritage projects and quality craftsmanship by working closely with the client and adhering to strict conservation guidelines, Henley Restoration & Remedials division will ensure that the process proceeds smoothly, ultimately leading to a seamless handover for the building’s full fit-out by its future occupants.
Tom Cardoe, Managing Director of Restoration at Henley Construction Management Group, expressed his enthusiasm for the project: “As a Wakefield-based company with extensive expertise in the restoration of important historical and listed buildings across the UK, we understand the significance of bringing Phoenix Mill back to its historical prominence. We are thrilled to be part of the final phase of this development, ensuring that the building will be cherished as a key element of a remarkable scheme that enhances our beloved city of Wakefield.”
Henley Construction Management Group has been actively involved in Phase 2 of the Tileyard North scheme, serving as a specialist subcontractor to Stainforth Construction for the brickwork restoration of Calder Mill, which is set to become a boutique hotel, and also as a subcontractor for Morgan Sindall Construction, completing the brickwork package for the new office space, Gradient Mill within the Tileyard North scheme. (All Three schemes depicted above)
Henley Construction Management Group is now passionately dedicated to safeguarding Phoenix Mill, the oldest mill in the scheme, drawing on their extensive knowledge gained from previous stages, and is focused on transforming this cherished landmark into a vibrant creative hub for the community.
Shaun Henley, Managing Director at Henley Construction Management Group, added: “We are excited to be working on Phoenix Mill for Opera Project Management. Having played a significant role in Phase 2 of the Tileyard scheme, we are focused on delivering this final phase to the highest quality we demand. We will draw on the extensive expertise across our group to ensure that every aspect of the restoration meets our rigorous standards.”
Joseph Curtis, Associate at Opera Project Management, commented: “We are pleased to appoint Henley Restoration and Remedials for the restoration of Phoenix Mill. Their proven track record and dedication to quality make them the ideal partner for this significant project. We are confident that their expertise will ensure the preservation of Phoenix Mill’s historical integrity while transforming it into a modern, creative space that will benefit the entire community.”
(L to R, Tom Cardoe, MD of Restoration at Henley Restoration and Remedials, Joseph Curtis – Associate at Opera Project Management, Shaun Henley- Henley Construction Management Group MD)
As Henley Restoration and remedials oversee this unique and vital project, Henley Construction Management Group remains steadfast in its continued commitment to serve as a specialist subcontractor and collaborator for their valued main contractor clients across the UK.
*With work on Phoenix Mill already underway since late summer, Henley Restoration & Remedials is dedicated to ensuring a successful restoration, with an anticipated handover in late spring 2025*