Work to transform shop into creative hub under way

Work to transform part of a former department store in Keighley into a creative hub is under way.

The project will see the top floor of the ex-Sunwin House store refurbished into a permanent base for artists, makers and community groups.

It has been funded with a £2.6m grant from the Keighley Towns Fund, £1.27m from the Community Ownership Fund, £906,000 from Keighley College and £250,000 from Bradford 2025's Cultural Capital Fund.

The hub, with a street gallery frontage, a flexible studio, workshop and exhibition and performance spaces, would act as a "catalyst for further regeneration" in Keighley town centre, according to Bradford Council.

The lease for the building will be held by East Street Arts, a Leeds-based charity working to provide workspace, resources and professional support for artists across England and Wales.

Jon Wakeman, the organisation's artistic director, said the hub in Keighley would be a "vital piece of creative infrastructure".

"It's also a nationally significant project, showing how investment in creative workspace can drive regeneration and support healthier, more resilient, town centres," he added.

Riaz Meer, executive director of Keighley Creative, which will occupy the building, said the organisation would continue to work with partners to "ensure the new building makes a significant positive impact to the regeneration of Keighley town centre and properly serves the artistic needs of the people of Keighley".

Once the work is completed, Keighley College is also expected use the building as a base to teach adults skills to help them into further training or work.

Alongside creativity, the college will also offer digital skills and routes into various sectors.

Alex Ross-Shaw, Bradford Council's portfolio holder for regeneration, transport and planning, said: "The transformation of Sunwin House is significant for the revitalisation of Keighley town centre and we believe it will act as a catalyst for further regeneration.

"Turning this landmark building into a cultural hub will create new opportunities for residents, attract visitors and breathe life into the space."

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