Several permissions need to be granted before it can go ahead
A new use has been suggested for the former KFC in Huddersfield town center, and plans are awaiting approval from Kirklees Council.
In January, the fast food giant closed its doors on Huddersfield New Street, causing further damage to the town core. Around the same time, other businesses shuttered, including Brew Dog, The Slug and Lettuce, and Footasylum, while others, such as Next and Beaverbrooks, announced their demise in quick succession.
As ideas arise and new shops open, these gaps on the high street are gradually being filled. The current application aims to transform the former KFC into a 24-hour adult gaming facility. These proposals from the Luxury Leisure Group, which trades as Admiral among other brands, are focused with establishing the premise of the building taking on this new use, with additional documentation to follow if approval is given.
The application’s Heritage Assessment describes the business as a “market leading provider” of gaming and entertainment venues, having over 280 main street and coastal gaming locations in the United Kingdom. Furthermore, it states: “The Group employs over 3000 staff in the UK and accounts for 22.5 per cent of the UK adult gaming centre market such that it is a highly experienced responsible operator in this market.”
The gaming centre would only be placed on the ground floor. The ground and first floors of the building were previously utilized by KFC, while the second floor was used for storage.
The applicant claims that its gaming centers have “no harmful impact” on retail activities. Furthermore, it states that there will be no noisy amusement arcade equipment that might attract underage people, and that children under the age of 18 will be barred from adult gaming centers in the town center. The statement goes on to say, “There are no negative consequences, and there is no evidence that such uses encourage antisocial behaviour.
“There is no audible trading noise break-out through the premises shopfront, even after accounting for the masking effects of the area’s existing ambient noise levels. The intended 24-hour use will increase foot traffic to the town center.
Given the building’s Grade II listing, Listed Building Consent will be required in the future. It is believed that the block of buildings was constructed in the late nineteenth century.
According to the applicant’s Heritage Assessment, the former KFC structure was a later addition and once housed the original Boot and Shoe Inn, which dates back to the early nineteenth century. This is remembered with an ornate relief stating ‘Boot and Shoe Hotel’ that is visible above the KFC fascia panel.
A judgment on the current application is expected by October 1, 2025.
Leave a Reply