DEVELOPERS have launched the second phase of a £6m mill redevelopment scheme – buoyed by the success of the first part of the ambitious programme.

The 19th century listed Folly Hall Mills, which stands alongside the river Colne, at Folly Hall, has been converted by Dewsbury-based Jay Tee Group to provide 60,000sq ft of prime office space.

The first phase of the scheme, comprising 16,900sq ft of offices, has already been fully let to two Huddersfield companies, ESTL and Above & Beyond.

The second phase, providing almost 40,000sq ft of office space, is now under construction – with suites due to be available for occupation from August.

The launch was attended by about 150 business leaders, Kirklees councillors and property professionals from across Yorkshire.

Last month, the council’s cabinet approved a grant of £400,000 towards the second phase of the development.

Clr Ken Sims, who was Cabinet member for regeneration at the time, said: “Given the current economic climate, it is heartening that a local development company which now owns the properties – Jay Tee Group – is confident to bring these buildings back into use with the potential of providing more than 150 new jobs.

“The development will provide top grade office accommodation – of which there is a shortage and for which there is a demand in Huddersfield.”

Training company ESTL has taken 15,000sq ft of office space at Folly Hall – including almost 7,000sq ft in the small mill building, 3,300sq ft in the former boiler house and 3,400sq ft in the main mill.

Architects Above & Beyond have taken two floors in the smaller of the two mills – moving from offices at Huddersfield Media Centre.

Jay Tee Group said the development would also boast its own cafe bar – Cafe 1844 – which is due to open in September and occupy 1,600sq ft on the ground floor of the larger mill.

Paul Bailey, project director at the Jay Tee Group, said: “The successful completion of phase one is a superb endorsement of the development.

“Altogether there is 40,000sq ft of prime office space left in the main mill over five floors, which can be leased or bought. This space can be divided into office units from 2,000sq ft upwards.

“We feel they will prove very attractive to professional services firms of all sizes, as well as to the public sector.”

Said Mr Bailey: “The interior of Folly Mill is absolutely stunning – with vaulted ceilings, spiral staircases, exposed beams and flooded with natural light. It is an absolutely wonderful place to work.

Joint agents for the scheme are Eddisons and Michael Steel 7 Co.

Folly Hall, which was built in 1844, stands next to the Grosvenor casino complex. It has 180 car parking spaces and use of a 100 space pay and display car park nearby.