After originally launching an online craft beer shop and then a bar in 2020, local couple Elena and Luke O’Brien envisaged what would become Coopers Yard while on a trip to America. The success of their shop spurred them to eventually lease a former power tool repair shop, previously an abattoir in Holmfirth, and working in conjunction with the Nu Construction design team, convert the building into a food hall showcasing local independent vendors.
Overview
Renovation and construction work on the project was contracted to NU Construction to develop a food court, bar and community space while maintaining where possible, the original features of the building, including some tiled walls and a number of bricks manufactured by the former Huddersfield Brick Company.
Completing the project successfully required coordination with the Conservation officer, acoustic specialists on noise levels and also asbestos specialists, as a large quantity needed to be removed in preparation for conversation work to be carried out. This involved maintaining a rustic feel with the existing timbers, steelwork, and internal walls.
The project was finished on time and within budget.
Holmfirth has limited space for socialising outdoors. With the opening of Coopers Yard, 120 people can sit inside together with over 60 outside, creating a great space for the local community. There are three kitchens and a coffee area, plus a large bar housed within the old store at the rear of the building.
Brief
NU Construction worked closely with the bar owners, Luke and Eleanor, on their vision for the space. The Local Council was also heavily involved in the process and some restrictions had to be overcome by the team, as the building is in a designated Conservation Area, resulting in close collaboration with a variety of professionals to complete the project.
As the new space was both a bar and a restaurant, specific consideration also had to be given to ventilation and extraction provision. Once the works were agreed upon, Nu Construction secured planning permission promptly in the last week of November 2023, allowing the team to start on-site immediately.
Challenges
The project wasn’t without challenges, which were overcome through the company’s partnerships with experts and tradespeople in the retail & hospitality space:
Outcome
Across the 21 weeks, approximately 50-60 people worked on the refurbishment project.
Many of the original features were retained through the adoption of various methods of cleaning, refurbishment and treating, including most of the steelwork, timbers, unique Huddersfield Brick Company bricks and the rustic industrial feel of the internal walls adorned with original brickwork and plaster.
“It was a huge pleasure to work with the team at NU Construction, they helped us see our vision through with a keen eye for detail. NU Construction restored the building with a great level of respect, making use of existing materials and features to make a modern and functional space, saving a nearly derelict building from disuse. We hope to continue our working relationship with them in our future projects.”
Luke O'Brien, Coopers Yard’s co-director
The renovations included the removal and replacement of a full roof on the rear store building, as well as reroofing the tiled areas on the main building. All windows were replaced, and further openings were formed for new windows and doors. Work on the project also involved fitting 3 pairs of aluminium bi-folding doors.
The whole space is a lot tidier, and Coopers Yard is transformed from a run-down workshop and yard to a vibrant venue for the local community to eat, drink and socialise. Additionally, 20 people from the local community are employed at Coopers Yard.
“I’m a great supporter of our small businesses in the Colne Valley and it’s wonderful to see how vibrant and popular a space Coopers Yard has become. The manner in which the building has been repurposed, its industrial feel, spaciousness and varied food and drink offer have rightly attracted much praise from the local community and beyond. The venue has a real community feel to it and it has been wonderful to see families from the valley enjoying the great atmosphere there. It has proved a most welcome addition to the attractive hospitality offer in Holmfirth.”
Paul Davies, MP for Colne Valley
The client was delighted with the outcome as it exceeded their expectations and did not overrun in any regard, allowing them to launch on time.
Nu are led by an experienced and competent senior team who involve eliminating problems on a non-confrontational and non-contractual basis. Their attitude to recognising the importance of good management with regards to Health & safety is very evident.
Nu are led by an experienced and competent senior team who involve eliminating problems on a non-confrontational and non-contractual basis. Their attitude to recognising the importance of good management with regards to Health & safety is very evident.