Reviving Leeds’ Industrial Past: Henley Restoration Appointed to Lead the Transformation of Midland Mills

Henley Restoration and Remedials Ltd, part of the Henley Construction Management Group, is proud to announce its appointment by City Life Developments Ltd as principal contractor for the restoration and structural transformation of Midland Mill, one of Leeds’ oldest surviving textile mills and a cornerstone of the city’s rich industrial heritage.

The restoration of Midland Mill marks a flagship phase in the wider Sky Gardens development within the South Bank regeneration zone. The project embodies the convergence of an ambitious urban redevelopment with a deep respect for Leeds’ architectural legacy.

Built in 1793 and listed by Historic England as the Midland Junction Foundry, Midland Mill is a powerful symbol of Leeds’ industrial heritage. Its transformation is not just about restoration but reimagining a listed building for the future, preserving its historic character while making it structurally and environmentally fit for modern use.

Henley Restoration and Remedials Ltd is a key part of the Henley Construction Management Group, with the expertise and resources to deliver large-scale restoration and remediation projects across the UK.

Working in close collaboration with the Group’s other specialist divisions, Henley Stone Specialists Ltd, Henley Brickwork, Henley Rail, and partner HZS Stainless Steel Ltd, the business benefits from a broad range of in-house capabilities. These include the supply of high-quality stainless-steel components, fixings, structural supports, and bespoke fabricated elements tailored to meet the demands of complex and highly specialised construction environments.  This integrated model, supported by a trusted, long-standing supply chain, enables the Group to deliver a wide spectrum of projects, from commercial and award-winning residential schemes to heritage restoration, remediation, and specialist works within the rail industry, all with efficiency, technical precision, craftsmanship, and architectural sensitivity.

Henley’s appointment marks the start of a highly specialist and technically demanding programme of works. This is not a routine restoration, but a full transformation designed to reimagine the building for future use while safeguarding its original character.

As part of the preparatory phase, an initial highly accurate 3D photogrammetry survey was carried out to assess the full extent of the building’s condition and inform the detailed planning of the restoration. With activity now underway on site, the team has commenced a carefully coordinated programme of works, supported by engineered temporary works to ensure safety and precise control throughout. Several elevations will be fully dismantled and rebuilt, combining meticulous planning with specialist techniques to protect the building’s historic fabric. Structural reinforcement will be carried out using precision stainless steel components fabricated by Group partner HZS Stainless Steel Ltd, providing vital support to the existing timber, masonry, and concrete, thereby securing the building’s long-term stability and heritage character.

Early works include the careful removal and replacement of damaged stone cills and the full and safe stripping of the existing asbestos slate roof. Henley’s in-house teams will then undertake the roof replacement, installing a new steel structure, fabricated once again by HZS Stainless Steel Ltd, topped with a natural slate covering discreetly integrated with solar PV tiles. This innovative and rare solution for a listed building is expected to generate over 40,000 kWh of renewable energy annually, delivering sustainability while remaining sensitive to the mill’s historic form.

Specialist façade cleaning will be carried out by our expert remedials team using Therm-atec steam cleaning technology, which employs gentle, non-invasive techniques to remove years of accumulated paint, mastic, and surface grime. This process carefully reveals and preserves the building’s original fabric without compromising its integrity.

Our comprehensive external repair programme will restore the building’s envelope, including full rake-out and repointing of brickwork and stone with breathable lime mortar, replacement of defective materials, and installation of new guttering and downpipes designed to seamlessly complement the building’s historic character. The restoration also involves the bespoke manufacture and installation of timber sash and Georgian windows, precisely matched to the original profiles. Several elevations will be meticulously rebuilt using salvaged or sympathetically replicated materials, with every detail carefully managed to preserve architectural authenticity throughout the mill.

“This is a flagship heritage project and a major undertaking,” said Tom Cardoe, Managing Director – Restoration, Henley Construction Management Group. “Our role isn’t just to preserve the past, it is to structurally future-proof it. This is where Henley sets itself apart: we plan, we build, we restore, all in-house.”

Shaun Henley, Managing Director, Henley Construction Management Group, added:
“This project is one we’re genuinely proud to be part of. While the client’s vision sets the direction, it is the dedication, expertise, and collaboration across the team that bring it to life. At Henley, we are committed to delivering complex, heritage-led projects with care and to the highest standards.”

Gareth Morgan, Managing Director at City Life Developments, said:
“Appointing Henley Restoration and Remedials Ltd was an easy decision. Their experience, attention to detail, and genuine respect for heritage buildings made them the natural choice. Midland Mill sits at the heart of Sky Gardens, a major development for Leeds, and we look forward to seeing it brought back to life as a symbol of the city’s evolving future.”

As works progress on site, Henley Restoration and Remedials continues to strengthen its reputation as a trusted contractor within the heritage and specialist construction sectors, seamlessly blending traditional craftsmanship with forward-thinking innovation. We invite you to follow the transformation of Midland Mill as it reclaims its place as a proud and enduring landmark in Leeds’ evolving cityscape.

 

See our portfolio of works. 

Celebrating Success Across the Henley Construction Management Group

We’re proud to share that our sister division, Henley Stone Specialists, has been appointed to deliver the full GRC package for Our Cultural Heart – the landmark regeneration of Huddersfield’s town centre. A brilliant win for the team and a project that holds great local significance for our Group, which is headquartered in West Yorkshire.

Their involvement spans from early design coordination through to installation, supporting BAM Construction and the client, Kirklees Council, in bringing this transformational scheme to life.

👏 Congratulations to everyone involved!

🔗 Read the full story on the Henley Stone Specialists website: www.henleystonespecialists.co.uk/our-cultural-heart

Achieving Perfect Delivery: A Proud Moment for Our Team

We are proud to share that the West Bromwich Town Hall & Library project has been awarded Perfect Delivery by Morgan Sindall, a testament to the exceptional collaboration and commitment of all involved.

Perfect Delivery Certificate awarded to Henley Restoration & Remedials by Morgan Sindall for the successful completion of the West Bromwich Town Hall & Library restoration project.
Henley Restoration & Remedials receives a Perfect Delivery Award from Morgan Sindall for its work on the West Bromwich Town Hall & Library restoration.

Morgan Sindall’s Project Manager, Brian Wiley, expressed his appreciation for our contribution, stating:

“As part of our valued supply chain for the project, I wanted to say a big thank you to your business, staff, and operatives for the contribution that you made to the project that helped the site to achieve the Perfect Delivery Award.

Please find attached your Perfect Delivery Certificate recognising the part you have played in delivering a successful project.

I look forward to working with you again in the near future.”

This recognition reinforces our unwavering commitment to excellence in heritage restoration, working in close partnership with our clients to ensure projects meet the highest standards of quality, safety, and efficiency.

Our Restoration Managing Director, Tom Cardoe, shared his insights on our contribution to the project:

“This achievement is a reflection of the expertise and dedication of our teams. Restoring and preserving historic buildings requires a specialist approach, and our work on West Bromwich Town Hall & Library was no exception. From careful material selection to expert craftsmanship, we ensured that every detail contributed to the overall success of the project. We’re delighted to have played a key role in helping Morgan Sindall achieve Perfect Delivery.”

At Henley Restoration & Remedials, we take great pride in delivering heritage and conservation projects to the highest standards, ensuring that historic buildings remain a vital part of our communities for generations to come.

This achievement is just one of many, and we look forward to continuing to support our valued partners in delivering excellence across future projects.

For more details on our work carried out on this project or to view our latest case studies, [click here].

HENLEY RESTORATION AND REMEDIALS APPOINTED FOR PHOENIX MILL RESTORATION, WAKEFIELD’S TILEYARD NORTH REGENERATION PROJECT.

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.”

 

Tileyard North, Regeneration Project Wakefield

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*

HENLEY RESTORATION & REMEDIALS CELEBRATES 10 YEARS OF NATIONAL HERITAGE EXCELLENCE

Henley Restoration & Remedials Celebrates 10 Years of Excellence in Heritage Restoration

Henley Restoration & Remedials, a renowned company within the Henley Construction Management Group, proudly celebrates its 10-year anniversary, highlighting its expertise and unwavering commitment to preserving the UK’s architectural heritage.

A Legacy of Preservation

Specialising in the restoration of historic buildings, Henley Restoration & Remedials serves clients across the UK, expertly managing the conservation and restoration of Grade I and II-listed structures and scheduled monuments.

A Decade of Growth and Leadership

Founded in 2014 by award-winning construction professional Shaun Henley and remedials masonry expert Matt Cummins, the company has consistently set benchmarks in the industry. Their collaborative vision fostered a team of highly skilled craftsmen trained in specialised repair techniques. Matt introduced an innovative custom brick-tinting system, creating bespoke colour solutions on-site, which enhances the aesthetic, character and weather resistance of historic and modern structures. With our knowledgeable Restoration MD, Tom Cardoe, completing the trusted leadership team, Henley Restoration & Remedials has seen remarkable 50% year-on-year growth, reflecting the countries increasing demand for heritage conservation and restoration. This success reflects the collective efforts of our senior leadership and skilled teams, all dedicated to upholding the highest standards of quality and historical accuracy, ensuring the preservation of our heritage legacies.

Tom Cardoe, Managing Director of Restoration, emphasised the companies unwavering commitment to historic preservation:

“During our project involvement in the restoration and conservation of listed building, we are all custodians of these historical sites. We have a huge responsibility ensuring our buildings and structures are preserved and not excessively affected by our interventions. Our passion, professionalism, and commitment to the task at hand guarantee that every building and structure under our care receives the highest level of preservation. Safeguarding our architectural heritage is a core priority for us, both before and throughout every project we undertake.”

 Precision in Heritage Projects

Henley Restoration & Remedials serves clients nationwide, reflecting its status as a highly specialised restoration and conservation contractor and consultant. Known for its meticulous approach to project scoping and conservation reporting, the company utilises modern technologies such as advanced geospatial surveying, Revit Models and Point Cloud data to achieve precision in even the most sensitive restoration projects. A recent highlight includes the restoration of the highly significant 20 Grosvenor Gardens House in London, where the team are preserving a Grade II-listed Parisian mansion block, seamlessly blending historic preservation methods with modern construction techniques.

Beyond its London-based projects, Henley is actively engaged in prominent schemes across the North, including the Tileyard North development in Wakefield, set to become the UK’s largest creative hub outside of London. As part of this initiative, Henley recently completed extensive brickwork restoration on The Calder Mill, soon to be transformed into a boutique hotel, along with a significant new-build brickwork project providing premium office space. Currently, as the principal contractor on the Grade II-listed Phoenix Mill, Henley is undertaking comprehensive external and structural repairs to ensure that the restoration meets the highest standards whilst working closely with all partners to preserve the historic character and charm of the oldest mill within the Tileyard North development.

 

Tileyard North Scheme, Wakefield

Left: Calder Mill, soon to be transformed into a boutique hotel; Middle: Phoenix Mill, currently under restoration  Background: New Build brickwork package

 A Unified Approach

What sets Henley Restoration & Remedials apart is its integrated approach within the Henley Construction Management Group. Collaborating closely with sister companies—including the multi-award-winning Henley Stone Specialists, renowned for constructing some of the UK’s most luxurious residential properties, offering complete GRC package solutions in the UK and internationally, and providing specialist brickwork and cladding—and the recently established HZS Stainless Steel, specialising in custom brackets, fixings, and stainless steel building components—Henley Group delivers exceptional quality and efficiency across both restoration and new-build projects. This internal synergy streamlines processes and enhances the client experience, positioning Henley Restoration & Remedials as a leader in the UK’s specialist construction industry.

Reflections and Future Growth

Reflecting on the division’s journey, Shaun Henley stated, “Our vision for Henley Restoration & Remedials has always been to preserve the past for the future. This milestone is a testament to our team’s diverse expertise, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to excellence on every project, large or small. I am incredibly proud of our growth and excited for what lies ahead as we continue expanding and enhancing our services within the UK’s restoration sector.”

Matt Cummins added, “Our focus has been on building strong client relationships and partnering with leading brick & stone manufacturers to ensure each project meets our exacting standards. By prioritising continuous training in the latest preservation technologies, we can tackle complex challenges and deliver exceptional outcomes for both heritage and contemporary projects.”

Looking Ahead

As Henley Restoration & Remedials looks to the future, the division is poised to expand its portfolio of landmark projects. Henley remains a trusted advisor in restoration, committed to delivering outstanding results while preserving the architectural heritage that defines communities throughout the UK.