Over 5,000 Visitors Pack Out Grand Opening of Historic Dewsbury Arcade
The historic Dewsbury Arcade officially reopened its doors to overwhelming public acclaim on Saturday 5th September, with well over 5,000 visitors flocking to the town centre to celebrate the landmark occasion.
Restored as the UK’s first community-owned shopping arcade, the Grade II listed Victorian thoroughfare was bustling from start to finish. Key dignitaries and community figures attended the landmark day, including the Mayor of Kirklees, Councillor Karen Allison, acclaimed stained-glass artist Martin Donlin, Baroness Warsi, and Carol Pyrah, Trustee and Chair of the England, North Committee at The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Baroness Warsi performed the official ribbon cutting, while Carol Pyrah unveiled the official Heritage Fund plaques.
The early crowds were rewarded as the first 50 people through the gates at 10am snapped up exclusive Arcade goodie bags packed with treats, tenant vouchers, and a limited-edition opening day postcard. Visitors also enjoyed celebratory Arcade cupcakes throughout the day.
Family fun took centre stage with character appearances from Spider-Man, Belle, Jessie, and Woody, who were on hand to meet excited children and pose for photos. Meanwhile, historical performers Meryl & Beryl chatted with locals, delighting in hearing nostalgic community stories about the Arcade’s rich past.
Creative activity filled the space through MakerWorld craft workshops, where attendees created beautiful stained-glass crafts. The Mayor of Kirklees, Councillor Karen Allison, alongside artist Martin Donlin, had the tough but enjoyable task of picking the winning creations.
Reflecting on the incredible turnout, Jenny Holden-Stokes, Manager of The Arcade, said: "To see over 5,000 people filling The Arcade, smiling, shopping, and celebrating together was beyond anything we could have hoped for. The atmosphere was electric from the moment the doors opened. This restoration has been a true labour of love for the community, and seeing the building buzzing with life again proves just how much this space means to the people of Dewsbury."
Reaction from attendees captured the town's pride:
"I remember the original Arcade, we used to shop here when I was a child. It is fantastic to see it brought back to life."
"What a great day for Dewsbury."
"The Arcade Group should be really proud of what they have done - we can't wait to see what comes next."
Helen Featherstone, Director, England, North at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “With thanks to National Lottery players, we are delighted to have helped bring this amazing heritage building back to life and see it restored to its former glory with its beautiful roof and ironwork. At the Heritage Fund, we don’t define heritage but let communities tell us what they hold dear. Dewsbury Arcade is clearly close to many people’s hearts. It is a credit to all those involved to see their ambition achieved with independent retailers open for business and The Arcade bustling with people once again.”
The launch has already sparked huge commercial interest across the region. In the lead-up to opening week and since the launch, over 20 active conversations are now underway with local businesses looking to take the remaining units.
Looking ahead, momentum is only set to build. The Arcade's dedicated event and community rooms will officially launch in October, kicking off with a major national art exhibition.