Renovations for Grade II* listed hotel to begin

The next stage in the renovation of a Grade II* listed hotel in West Yorkshire is due to start in March.

The George Hotel in Huddersfield - famed for being the birthplace of rugby league - is being refurbished and will reopen as a 108-room venue with bar, restaurant and gym.

Kirklees Council said the project would preserve the hotel's historic frontage while preparing it for operators Radisson RED to occupy.

Councillor Graham Turner said: "This is another exciting milestone for the town centre."

The hotel in the town centre dates back to 1851 and is set to become the first Radisson RED-branded hotel in Yorkshire.

Once restored, it will be managed by the Radisson Hotel Group. Revised plans to preserve the building and increase its revenue potential were approved in October 2025.

Turner said the hotel was a "gateway building" that could help boost the local economy once it reopens.

"We want people to help create the look and feel of the building, so it represents our heritage, identity and character that makes our community unique," he added.

Adela Cristea, chief development officer at Radisson Hotel Group, said: "It's fantastic to see work progress on this historic building, the hotel is rich in history and heritage and one of Huddersfield's most iconic landmarks."

Extended hoardings have already been put up on John William Street, with scaffolding due to be installed shortly to allow dismantling work to begin on the west side of the building.

The stone frontage will be retained, while the current roof will be replaced with two new set‑back storeys. The contractor is GMI Construction Group.

The hotel has been vacant since 2013 and was acquired by the council in 2020.

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