Henley Restoration and Remedials, a key division of Henley Construction Management Group—a specialist construction management firm based 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.”

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

Henley Construction Management Group has been actively involved in Phase 2 of the Tileyard 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, completing the brickwork package for the new office space within the Tileyard scheme.

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.

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.