Delivered in partnership with West Yorkshire Combined Authority and Calderdale Council, the project has created a modern, fully accessible transport hub, future-proofed to support the transition to electric buses.
Sustainability was a priority from the outset, aligning with the Leeds City Region’s goal to achieve net-zero carbon transport by 2038.
Opened in July 2024, the £20.7 million scheme minimises embodied and operational carbon emissions and maximises environmental resilience through its design and choice of materials across the project lifecycle.
HBS seamlessly integrates old and new to create a visually striking and functional building. The station’s Grade II-listed Sion Chapel has been preserved and repurposed as a concourse entrance, reinforcing local heritage while enhancing functionality. The project’s Y-shaped design accommodates the site's steep slope to ensure full accessibility without compromising capacity.
The project stands out for its green roof, which spans the whole concourse and serves to reduce rainwater runoff, improve site water attenuation, and support local biodiversity. The heavier wildflower sections of roof counterbalance the lighter canopy overhangs, reducing the amount of structural steel used and saving 11,700 kgCO2e of embodied carbon.
This design provides natural ventilation - with high-level clerestory windows open automatically to enhance airflow - reducing the need for mechanical cooling and the canopies reduce solar gain and provide shade and shelter for passengers.
Renewable energy generated by 100m² of photovoltaic panels on the ancillary building’s south-facing roof, delivers an annual reduction in operational carbon of 3,416 kgCO2e.
Other highly sustainable features at Halifax Bus Station include:
- Heat pumps for heating and cooling, with Mechanical Ventilation Heat Recovery (MVHR) units to capture and recycle up to 75% of heat energy, also reducing fossil fuel reliance.
- High-performance insulation to minimise heat loss and energy demand, resulting in U-values and airtightness that exceed building regulations.
- LED lighting with occupancy sensors and daylight dimming
- Non-storage hot water heaters to eliminate standing heat loss, low-flush toilets to reduce water consumption.
The result is a striking, highly sustainable transport hub that is ready for the shift to low-emission public transport. Ducting and structural reinforcements are already in place, allowing rapid installation of EV charging points as bus fleet electrification progresses - a move that will further enhance air quality and cut operational carbon.
Cllr Jane Scullion, Leader of Calderdale Council, said: “The ambitious project has improved the visitor experience, making bus travel a more appealing option. The building’s features also support our priority for climate action, with environmental impacts at the heart of the project, contributing to local and regional net zero carbon targets.”
The project's sustainability vision extended beyond the build itself, driving social impact and education across Calderdale:
- Willmott Dixon created a bespoke learning programme, engaging over 1,200 students through site visits, lessons on sustainable construction, and workshops with industry leaders.
- The project delivered 154 apprentice weeks, supported four young people into new careers, and engaged over 81% local labour within a 20-mile radius.
- Other benefits to the local economy include 79% of spend and 81% of labour sourced within 20 miles, bringing economic uplift.
Halifax Bus Station has set a new standard for sustainable transport infrastructure, seamlessly integrating modern passenger facilities with environmental responsibility and community enrichment.
Mayor of West Yorkshire Tracy Brabin said: “It’s been a huge effort from everybody involved to create a world-class facility, helping get more people out of their cars and onto public transport.”
