BAM drives Huddersfield regeneration with £77m local spend, major job creation and 17,000 apprenticeship weeks

BAM has revealed new figures highlighting the positive social impact of three major construction projects in Huddersfield, with £77 million spent locally, £250,000 donated to community projects and 17,000 apprenticeship weeks provided.

The three projects, which form part of a once-in-a-generation transformation of the town, include Kirklees Council’s Our Cultural Heart, the University of Huddersfield’s Daphne Steele Building, and vital improvements to Huddersfield Station as part of the TransPennine Route Upgrade.

The contractor reported that £77 million has been invested in the local economy through the course of the projects, with 68% being directed to micro, small and medium-sized businesses. BAM has also partnered with more than 100 community organisations, donating over £250,000 to community projects and groups.

The schemes have supported over 500 people into employment, delivered 17,000 weeks of apprenticeships and T Levels, and provided 6,081 hours of engagement with schools.

The contractor has also supported the new Kirklees College Skills Operator Hub, developed in partnership with Kirklees Council and Flannery Plant Hire, to offer industry-recognised CPCS qualifications.

Joy went on to say: “Through each project, we’ve focused our efforts where they’re needed most, helping to strengthen the local economy and build resilient, sustainable communities.

“Our long-term involvement across multiple projects in Huddersfield has created a ripple effect: supporting business growth, fostering lasting community partnerships, and enabling skills development and meaningful employment. These impacts will continue to benefit the area for years to come."

One person who has benefited from the investment is Huddersfield-resident Baidon Harrison-Wilson. Baidon began his work experience with BAM on the Our Cultural Heart project, before moving on to a placement on the TransPennine Route.

Upgrade and securing a permanent role with BAM. 

Baidon describes the confidence his placement helped him build: “At first, I felt quite uncomfortable and nervous stepping into a completely different work environment, especially since I was only used to retail jobs.

“Every day there was something new to learn. It pushed me to be more organised, more proactive and more confident in handling a fast-paced environment.

“I used to struggle with talking to new people, but now I can comfortably have a full conversation with someone I’ve never met.”

A local small business that has benefited from the investment is town centre-based HD1 Fitness Clinic and Wellness Kitchen. BAM spent 35 days transforming their premises with new facilities, landscaping and repairs. The results were dramatic – HD1 reported a ten-fold increase in business, two new staff hires and a thriving community hub. 

HD1 Fitness Clinic and Wellness Kitchen commented: “The past 19 months have been unbelievable for HD1 Fitness Clinic and Wellness Kitchen — in fact life-changing. Thank you BAM for everything you have done for me and the community.”
 

The TransPennine Route Upgrade (West) is delivering a multi-billion-pound modernisation of the railway between Manchester and Leeds via Huddersfield. 

Focusing on electrifying the route, it will provide faster and more frequent travel, as well as delivering a major redevelopment of Huddersfield station, with two new platforms, greater accessibility and restoration of its heritage features. 

Our Cultural Heart is redeveloping the former Queensgate market. The first phase, currently under construction, will deliver connection in the community through vibrant new spaces, including a food hall, modern library, and public realm space designed for everyone to enjoy. 

With up to five phases in the plan, including a new art gallery, museum and live entertainment venue, it plays a crucial role in creating a thriving, modern town centre. 

The Daphne Steele Building forms the first building in the University of Huddersfield’s National Health Innovation Campus (NHIC). Formally opened in late 2024, it houses public-facing student-led clinics and healthcare training facilities to educate students across numerous health disciplines (e.g. nursing, physiotherapy, paramedic science).  

Supporting the region’s workforce, the centre aims to deliver a 60% increase in trained healthcare professionals within five years, addressing shortages and improving regional health outcomes.

The University is currently offering tours of the new building, which can be booked online: Guided tour of the Daphne Steele Building - University of Huddersfield