Dudleys Consulting Engineers has played a pivotal role in the successful redevelopment of a historic dyeworks site located near Huddersfield. Its expert advisory services were instrumental in transforming the site through sustainable practice whilst increasing the saleable value of much needed new housing in the area.
Royd Edge Mills is a bespoke residential development situated near the picturesque village of Meltham, on the edge of the Peak District. The transformation of an historic mill site now offers a diverse selection of 30 brand new homes, ranging from two-bedroom apartments to five-bedroom detached family houses. With the first and second phases already occupied, the third and final phase of development is nearing completion.
The site, with origins dating back to the late 1830s, was initially established as a mill that utilised water from Royd Edge Moor, specifically drawn from Thick Hollins Dyke. Over the years, it enjoyed a vibrant period as a dyeworks, passing through various owners. However, following a long and industrious history, the site eventually fell into neglect, leading to the demolition of its buildings.
This industrial legacy resulted in a complex landscape, marked by remnants of building foundations, areas of quarrying, and a network of watercourses. Several below ground level structures, such as basements and old wheelhouses, former engine rooms and below ground level chimneys, had to be excavated as well as the need to work around steep bedrock.
Dudleys was brought in on the project as an engineering specialist, providing expert advice on all below ground works, above ground works and full drainage for both plot and mains connections. It also delivered structural designs for all houses and apartments.
The award-winning practice recommended a new strategy for site levelling with varying foundation solutions designed for shallow trench, deep trench and pile that would also allow connection to existing adopted drainage and also handle surface water drainage. These plans delivered additional value with the provision of increased garden space and enhanced natural landscaping throughout the development for residents to enjoy.
To support this vision, the delivery team implemented an approach to cut back a former mill pond, removing the risk of leaks and eliminated the need for a significantly high retaining wall. This allowed for a more visually appealing and practical solution.
Andy Walker, Managing Director at Dudleys Consulting Engineers, said,
“The sites previous industrial use presented significant challenges and required careful management of flood risks associated with the neighbouring mill pond. Rather than opting for the straightforward solution of constructing a retaining wall, we took a more innovative approach.
“By considering the broader impacts of our engineering decisions, we delivered a solution that not only enhanced the site’s visual appeal but also minimised off-site material waste and increased the saleable value for the developer.
“This was achieved through strategic reconfiguration of the landscape and the relocation of the mill pond. In addition, new woodland walkways were created, allowing the development to better integrate with the surrounding natural environment and providing future residents with easier site maintenance.”
Adam Howarth of Royd Edge Mill Developments Ltd said,
“Through its involvement, Dudleys has ensured that the sites’ engineering challenges were addressed efficiently in terms of both cost and time. The development has shown that a historic brown field site can be developed sympathetically to enhance the local area and deliver value for the local community.
“Dudleys is an integral part of the design process, working closely with the rest of the team to assist in this sympathetic development.”
Dudleys has extensive experience in providing structural and engineering solutions for historic site redevelopment. The consultancy team is retained to advise on the ongoing redevelopment of Sunnybank Mills in Leeds and Globe Mills in Slaithwaite and is also assisting Keighley and Worth Valley Railway Preservation Society across its heritage portfolio.
Dudleys is a Leeds based company offering Structural and Civil engineering advice across the UK. Established more than 16 years ago, the privately owned consultancy employs a team of 30 highly skilled engineers. It operates in all key real estate sectors including residential, industrial, commercial, retail and education. Key projects and clients include Southbank Leeds, The San Francisco 49ers, Skelton Grange Leeds, Bettys & Taylors of Harrogate, Leeds Bradford Airport, Leeds United Football Club, Arla Foods and Unilever UK.
