Wainhouse Terrace, Halifax

 A Halifax Landmark: The Story of Wainhouse Terrace

King Cross, Halifax, boasts a piece of history with a somewhat checkered past: Wainhouse Terrace. Once a bustling Victorian neighborhood, it's now a Grade II listed shell of its former self.

Built in 1876 by industrialist John Wainhouse, the terrace was envisioned as housing for his mill workers, many of them Irish immigrants. Wainhouse, also responsible for the nearby Wainhouse Tower, constructed the terrace between A646 Burnley Road and A58 Rochdale Road.

The grand design featured back-to-back Victorian houses, a common feature of the era. However, by the 1970s, the area faced major redevelopment. While the distinctive square tower with its spiral staircase and balcony were preserved, the houses themselves were demolished to make way for wider roads.

In 1973, the remaining terrace was transformed into a public viewing platform, offering scenic vistas of the Ryburn Valley. Under council ownership, it was maintained in a decent state. Unfortunately, following its sale in 2008 for a mere £76,000, the terrace fell into disrepair.

The cavity behind the front of the houses, behind the brick wall, would hold the actual living quarters...

Despite its current state, a glimmer of hope emerged in 2016 with the arrival of a local volunteer group dedicated to cleaning the are

The future of Wainhouse Terrace hangs in the balance. Steeped in history and boasting captivating views, this landmark has immense potential. With the right investment, it could be revitalized as a vibrant market space or a flourishing public garden, breathing new life into this unique piece of Halifax's heritage. The key is finding someone who recognizes its worth and is willing to shepherd Wainhouse Terrace into a new chapter.