Willmott Dixon is set to deliver a £23 million transformation of Dewsbury Bus Station, continuing its track record of improving urban connectivity across the UK.
The project, which follows similar work in Stockport, North Shields, Halifax and Stevenage, is aimed at enhancing the convenience and appeal of public transport in West Yorkshire.
The planned upgrades will include a major overhaul of the main waiting area, making it more comfortable and attractive to passengers. A ‘living roof’ covered with plants will be added to the station’s structure, along with new cycle parking facilities and solar panels. These changes align with West Yorkshire’s goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2038.
When the project is completed in Summer 2027, Dewsbury Bus Station will feature real-time information displays, improved safety and security features, and accessible facilities, including a ‘Changing Places’ toilet. This facility will be equipped with specialised equipment such as a hoist and a height-adjustable changing bench, catering to people with multiple and severe disabilities. In addition, another accessible toilet for all people with disabilities will be available.
Willmott Dixon is collaborating with the West Yorkshire Combined Authority and Kirklees Council on the project, which forms part of the Council’s broader Dewsbury Blueprint. This initiative aims to make the town centre more attractive and easier to navigate, ultimately boosting foot traffic and improving local infrastructure.
The Dewsbury Bus Station project is one of several high-profile transport upgrades Willmott Dixon has delivered, including work in Halifax and the Stockport Interchange. The company has also helped to modernise transport interchanges in North Shields, Stevenage, and Lincoln.
In addition to the infrastructure improvements, Willmott Dixon is investing in the local community by creating a ‘Building Lives Academy’ in partnership with Kirklees College. The academy will provide 12 Dewsbury residents with work experience and classroom learning, helping them develop skills for future employment.
Cllr Moses Crook, Deputy Leader of Kirklees Council, expressed enthusiasm for the project, said: “I am really pleased to see this investment in Dewsbury and I’m excited to see the transformation of the bus station, which is a fundamental step towards providing more accessible and sustainable travel options for everyone. These new facilities will make travelling by public transport a more attractive option and they will create more exciting opportunities for work, education and training, as well as connecting communities, family and friends across West Yorkshire.”
Chris Yates, Yorkshire Director at Willmott Dixon, emphasised the company’s commitment to local development: “Our transport and town centre regeneration experts are proud to be working in partnership with West Yorkshire Combined Authority and Kirklees Council to transform Dewsbury Bus Station into a modern and sustainable community transport hub. We share a passion for creating employment opportunities and building skills in this community. That’s why we are committed to investing more than £7 million with local businesses throughout the project, as well as creating over 125 weeks of apprenticeship training and engaging Dewsbury school and college students.”
The project is being funded through the Combined Authority’s Transforming Cities Fund programme, which is designed to make it easier for people to walk, cycle, and use public transport in West Yorkshire.
Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
