Restoration of Shopfronts in Town Heritage Program

Two 19th-century buildings in a West Yorkshire market town have become the first to undergo restoration as part of a broader heritage initiative. The properties at 31-33 Queen Street in Morley have had their shopfronts refurbished to better complement the local conservation area, according to Leeds City Council.

The restoration is financed through the Morley Town Deal's Heritage Investment Fund, which will channel millions of pounds into preserving historic buildings by providing grants to their owners. Jonathan Pryor, deputy leader of the council, emphasized that this funding not only safeguards the town's heritage but also modernizes infrastructure and revitalizes underutilized spaces.

The council plans to expand investment in heritage shopfronts, with additional grant agreements being finalized to restore more commercial properties and buildings throughout the town, aiming to return them to their original charm.

Pryor, who also oversees economy, transport, and sustainable development, stated: "Morley is home to distinctive and beautiful architecture that is not yet fully appreciated. The Heritage Investment Fund demonstrates how the Morley Town Deal will create a lasting positive impact on the town for generations."

The Heritage Investment Fund is part of a larger 24.3 million allocation from the governments Towns Fund. Dan Merrick, chair of the Morley Town Deal heritage working group, added: "Revitalizing and repurposing Morley's historic buildings has always been a central aim of the Town Deal. It is rewarding to see the first two buildings completed, with more set to benefit from the scheme in the near future."

Author: Zoe Harrison