Calderdale Council have approved a new Service Level Agreement (SLA), providing an investment of £225,000 for The Piece Hall for the coming year. We are sincerely grateful to councillors and to the people of Calderdale for their continued support and for recognising the vital role The Piece Hall plays at the heart of Halifax and across the entire Borough.
While this important public investment represents less than 5% of our annual turnover, it plays a crucial role. We are fully committed to using it, alongside income generated through our commercial activity and fundraising, efficiently, transparently and to maximum public benefit.
This investment helps The Piece Hall deliver for Calderdale communities:
Education & Partnerships
- Curriculum-linked school workshops and guided tours, connecting young people with Georgian history and the textile trade.
- Partnerships with local colleges and universities to provide skills training and courses, research opportunities, placements and paid internships.
Heritage Importance
- Stewardship of the world’s only surviving Georgian cloth hall (opened 1779), our Grade I listed which is globally unique.
- Ongoing care following the landmark restoration completed in 2017, safeguarding a nationally significant heritage asset for future generations and encouraging engagement with and learning from British history.
Economic & Trade Benefits
- An estimated £680 million contribution to the local economy in the last decade, approximately £426 per Calderdale resident, per year, plus on ongoing annual impact of around £90 million.
- A thriving home for independent shops, cafés, bars and markets, supporting local SMEs and town-centre regeneration.
Cultural Impact
- A major year-round multi-award-winning events programme, including internationally recognised concerts, art exhibitions and community performances.
- Strong thought leadership with internationally respected team members in the cultural and events world.
Community Impact
- A free and open civic space hosting inclusive celebrations such as the Coronation, VE Day and Pride.
- A focal point for community events including the Tractor Takeover, Emergency Services Day and Dance Days celebrating the best of Calderdale and West Yorkshire.
Our vision for The Piece Hall is ambitious and community driven. We aim to expand our skills training through the Piece Hall Academy, grow opportunities for local businesses and creatives, and widen participation so that everyone can feel pride in their historic space.
We are proud of what has been achieved together and excited for what lies ahead. While this current agreement is only for a year, we look forward to continuing to work closely with Calderdale Council to secure this vital support for years to come. This ongoing investment is necessary to ensure The Piece Hall can build on its success, deepen its impact, and remain an essential cultural, economic and civic asset for Calderdale and the North.