[1] The building was commissioned as a corn exchange by the lord of the manor, Charles Wentworth-Fitzwilliam, 5th Earl Fitzwilliam, whose seat was at Wentworth Woodhouse.

The central section of three bays featured a tetrastyle portico formed by four full-height Corinthian order pilasters supporting an entablature and a modillioned pediment.

A more substantial programme of works, involving the creation of a new front entrance with a canopy and a balcony above, and the installation of a proscenium arch and stage, was completed in 1934.

The windows were decorated in Art Deco style with stained glass depicting some figures dancing, and a shopping mall was established on the ground floor.

After completion of the works, which were carried out by W. Birch and Son of York, to a design by James Brodie of Pudsey, the building re-opened as the Palace Theatre on 7 May 1934.