Lloyds Banking Group has reopened its flagship Halifax office after a £116 million ($154 million) refurbishment, creating a modern, low-carbon workplace while preserving one of the town’s most recognisable buildings. The 317,000 sq ft site welcomed colleagues back on 1 December, reinforcing the Group’s role as Calderdale’s largest private employer.
Around 3,500 staff—alongside nearly 100 apprentices, graduates and T-level students—will use the Trinity Road building as their primary base. First opened in 1974 by Queen Elizabeth II, the diamond-shaped structure has been a key feature of Halifax’s business landscape for decades. The refurbishment retains signature elements including listed timber panelling, its glass façade and the distinctive 5×5 grid lighting system, while the York Stone exterior has been fully preserved.
Sustainability was a central focus of the project. The site now operates on zero-carbon heating via an advanced heat-pump system, supported by boreholes drilled to depths comparable with London’s Shard. Lloyds says the system will cut more than 1,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions a year and help the building achieve an EPC A rating. The office also runs on 100% renewable electricity, incorporates recycling stations made from repurposed plastic and coffee grounds, features three biodiverse living roofs and uses rainwater harvesting.
The refurbished site is set to serve as a talent hub for Yorkshire, providing hands-on experience for students and early-career professionals in areas such as digital and cyber security. The building includes a range of inclusive features, including accessible changing facilities, Braille signage, contemplation rooms and a free fitness space run by local instructors.
Sharon Doherty, Chief People and Places Officer at Lloyds Banking Group, said the investment reflects the bank’s long-standing ties to the region and its commitment to creating “a sustainable, inclusive, and inspiring workplace that honours our local heritage while supporting the next generation of Yorkshire talent.”
West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin described the redevelopment as “a fantastic vote of confidence” in the region, praising Lloyds for combining heritage preservation with innovation and for expanding opportunities in digital and business sectors.
Scott Camp, Managing Director of Wates Smartspace, which delivered the project with Calderdale Council, said the refurbishment demonstrates “what can be achieved through collaboration”, combining sustainability, innovation and social impact in a landmark redevelopment.
