Historic England is helping to breathe new life into old places that are rich in heritage – one being the remarkable town of Dewsbury in West Yorkshire.

The western part of central Dewsbury boasts medieval street layouts and reflects the period of Victorian growth and innovation in the textiles recycling industry that drove the development of the town as it is today.

Historic England commissioned LUC to support the protection of important built elements in the town through a Historic Area Assessment.

As part of the Dewsbury Heritage Action Zone (HAZ) programme, LUC researched the heritage of the project area to improve understanding of the significance of the historic buildings and infrastructure. The aim is to help to instil a sense of local pride wherever there is a HAZ, and help to unlock regeneration and investment.

The evidence we delivered will inform decisions leading to revised or further listings, improving the information base for planners in managing the town centre’s heritage.

Nick Haynes provided archival research and photography support on this project.