Wakefield Exchange (WX)

Client:
Wakefield Council
Sector:
Frameworks, Leisure
Project Value:
£8 million
Duration:
43 weeks
Wakefield Exchange. Image credit Mark Newton 5

Project Overview

The Wakefield Exchange (WX) project involved the comprehensive refurbishment and transformation of a former market hall into a modern, multi-use commercial and community space. 
YORbuild

Scope of Works

Located in the heart of Wakefield, WX was particularly complex due to the building’s age and structural considerations.

A key element of the works was the extensive reroofing package, which included the removal of outdated roofing materials and the installation of a high-performance roofing system designed to improve energy efficiency, durability, and long-term weather protection.

The scheme also included internal reconfiguration to create flexible workspaces, offices, meeting rooms, upgraded mechanical and electrical systems, and high-quality finishes throughout. 

The project was funded by The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, who fund the Cultural Development Fund, which is administered by Arts Council England, and by Wakefield Council.
Wakefield IMG 2200 1

Challenges & Our Approach

The Wakefield Exchange project presented several key challenges due to its city centre location and the scope of refurbishment works. Access and logistics were constrained by surrounding streets, requiring careful planning for deliveries and temporary storage to minimise disruption to the local community, bus interchange and businesses.

The building’s age and structural condition posed additional complexity, particularly for the reroofing works. Removal of outdated roofing materials needed careful sequencing to protect the building envelope, while the installation of the high-performance roofing system required precision to ensure long-term durability and improved energy performance.

Social Value Delivered

The project was procured through the YORbuild3 construction framework,  and William Birch were selected for their competitive proposals and approach delivering meaningful social value outcomes by supporting local suppliers and engaging the community during the redevelopment process. As part of the procurement process, we made commitments to employment, skills and training opportunities including school and college visits, work experience and apprenticeship opportunities, and we have delivered on our promises.  We recruited a new local site operative to join the team and facilitated 4 people who were previously out of work into employment. 

Outcome

The transformed site now offers an exciting programme of events and activity, supported by an independent food and drink offer.  The site also features skills and creative business spaces, linking up cultural organisations, businesses, entrepreneurs, influencers, and creative students with each other, and with key players across the creative sector.

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