Scope of Works
The regeneration of Rutland Mills in Wakefield is transforming a long-neglected industrial site into Tileyard North, a vibrant, mixed-use creative industries hub and cultural destination. This ambitious project is the final piece in a ten-acre masterplan revitalising Wakefield’s historic waterfront and is an excellent example of heritage regeneration and sustainable design.
Bullen Conservation was appointed to undertake a full Doff clean and carry out a full repoint to all elevations. The parapet walls, window heads and various isolated areas were also taken down and rebuilt using reclaimed brick. To uplift the appearance and remove elements of paint, dirt and rust, some internal grit blasting was undertaken, with special care taken in terms of the correct grit and pressure.
The transformation of Rutland Mills into Tileyard North exemplifies how adaptive reuse can breathe new life into disused industrial heritage without erasing its past. Instead of demolition and new-build construction, the project retains the original Victorian brickwork, timber structures and historic spatial layouts, blending them with modern interventions. These heritage features now frame studios, event spaces, a café, and collaborative workspaces for music, media, design, and tech sectors—making it the largest creative cluster outside of London.
