“A place on the up”: How Town of Culture bid could impact Halifax property market

Dozens of towns across the country have put themselves forward for the competition, which would see the winner receive £3million to deliver a year of cultural activity in 2028, with the two other finalists receiving £250,000 each.

As Halifax waits to see if it has made the shortlist – due to be announced this spring – the Courier spoke to estate agents in the town about what makes Halifax a great place to live, and what impact the bid could have on the property market.

Jamie Kennerdale, branch manager at Reeds Rains in Halifax, said the bid is already helping people to see Halifax as a “place on the up”, something which he said buyers and sellers take notice of.

Mr Kennerdale said: “Anything that celebrates what makes the town special and encourages further growth is a positive.

“We see daily how proud people are to live here, and this bid taps into that. Whatever the outcome, it’s already helping to highlight Halifax as a place on the up – and that’s something buyers and sellers definitely take notice of.”

Mr Kennerdale highlighted the town’s assets, adding that there is already a growing number of buyers who want to live in Halifax not only for its affordability, but “because they genuinely want to live here”.

He said: “Halifax has always had a lot going for it, and we’re seeing more and more people recognise that.

“It’s a town with real character – from the historic architecture and places like the Piece Hall, to the independent businesses and strong sense of community. It’s even earned the nickname ‘Culturedale’ locally, which really reflects how much the arts and culture scene has grown in recent years.

“At the same time, it’s practical: good transport links, access to countryside, and property that still offers good value compared to nearby cities.

“We’re speaking to a growing number of buyers and renters who are choosing Halifax not just because it’s affordable, but because they genuinely want to live here.”

On what the bid could mean for Halifax, Mr Kennerdale said: “The Town of Culture 2028 bid feels like a natural next step for the town.

“There’s already a strong cultural offer here, and this would help shine a bigger spotlight on it.

“If Halifax were to win, we’d expect it to raise the town’s profile and bring more investment, which tends to have a knock-on effect in the property market.

“Increased interest from buyers, especially those from outside the area, usually follows, and that can help support both demand and confidence locally.”

Ben Waites, director at Charnock Bates, said winning the competition would be a “significant boost” for the town, adding that cultural investment can increase confidence in an area.

Mr Waites said: “If Halifax were to win the Town of Culture 2028 competition, it would be a significant boost.

“Cultural investment and national recognition tend to increase confidence in an area, attracting new visitors, businesses and residents.

“For the property market, that kind of momentum often strengthens demand and highlights the long-term appeal of places like Halifax that already have strong heritage, creativity and community at their heart.”

On what makes Halifax a great place to live, Mr Waites highlighted Halifax’s lifestyle appeal as something which attracts buyers.

He said: “Halifax has become one of West Yorkshire’s most compelling places to live because it combines heritage, culture and green space in a way few towns can.

“Landmarks such as The Piece Hall – a beautifully restored Georgian cloth hall now filled with independent cafés, boutiques and live events – sit alongside cultural venues like Victoria Theatre and creative hubs at Dean Clough.

“The town is also home to attractions such as Eureka! The National Children's Museum and historic spaces including Shibden Hall, while its parks, surrounding countryside and vibrant independent food scene give it a lifestyle appeal that continues to attract buyers.

“Halifax has even gained national attention as a filming location for productions such as Gentleman Jack and Secret Invasion, which has helped introduce the town’s character and architecture to a wider audience.”