Video: How they restored Keighley arcade to Victorian splendour

A VICTORIAN arcade has been returned to its former grandeur following a major restoration.
The Arcade, North Street, Keighley.The Arcade, North Street, Keighley.
The Arcade, North Street, Keighley.

The Arcade in Keighley has been extensively repaired and further specialist work has been carried out on its ornate features.

It was completed thanks to funding of £725,000 from the Keighley Townscape Heritage Initiative grant scheme funded by Bradford Council and the Heritage Lottery Fund, while the owner of the Grade II listed building also contributed significant sums.

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Among the striking elements of the building is the shop front and windows of the former Turner and Wall Solicitors’ reception area which is now the Kaos Hair Technicians.

The Arcade, North Street, Keighley.The Arcade, North Street, Keighley.
The Arcade, North Street, Keighley.

The tiled walls and modern front were replaced with ornate, airy windows and the original features were replicated from existing features in the arcade and through the research of old photographs and architectural drawings.

Extensive repairs were carried out including the replacement of the damaging cement render on the rear of the building, which trapped moisture, with traditional lime render which allows moisture to escape into the atmosphere.

The original sash windows were restored, the glazed canopy was replaced and the marble terrazzo floor of the arcade was restored by specialists.

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The upper floor space had been vacant for a number of years but the empty offices have now been converted into 13 apartments.

Lord Mayor of Bradford, Coun Khadim Hussain, who yesterday officially hosted the opening of the arcade, said: “This restoration is impressive, revealing beautiful ornate features. I’m sure people will appreciate the work that has been carried out when they see it.”

Coun Val Slater, the council’s heritage champion, said: “This listed building has been carefully restored to its original glory. It has attracted a lot of interest in the North Street area and is a great boost to the town centre as a whole.”