Have your say on £200m plans for Dewsbury
CounCil sets up a new store to outline town blueprint proposals
PEOPLE interested in Kirklees Council’s vision of revamping Dewsbury town centre are being invited to its new shop.
The council is asking residents to visit the shop and let them know what they think about the £200m 10-year plan to make the town centre more attractive.
Kirklees Council bosses are taking action to revive businesses by relocating 750 of their own staff to central Dewsbury over the next five years, in a bid to increase footfall in the shops and restaurants.
The senior councillor in charge of the multi-million regeneration project said he recognised that Dewsbury town centre held “precious memories” for many.
Launching the plan, Clr Peter McBride, said: “For many, the town centre holds precious memories, the trips to the cinema as a child, or a bag of chips on a bench, time spent with loved ones who are no longer with us.
“Because of these connections, passions often run high when we discuss Dewsbury, and that’s okay because passion often leads to action.
“We want to create a town which creates new memories, that today’s children can look back on and share with their children in years to come.
“The way we use towns has changed, but what remains important is the experiences that a town creates, whether that be shopping, working or having fun.”
Clr McBride blamed government cuts for the rundown state of the North Kirklees town.
He added: “We know that people still feel uncertain about the future of this great market town.
“Years of austerity prevented us from making the changes the town needs, but we are confident in our plans, and it’s important that local people get involved in shaping the details.
“So please get involved and help us make Dewsbury a Town of Distinction.”
The blueprint shop in the old TUI travel agent on Market Place, is open from 10am to 4pm on Wednesdays and Saturdays until March 14.
Viistors can see the proposals and also talk to some of the team about what it means for the town and complete a survey, which can also be done online.
Kirklees Council has already spent millions at Pioneer House to create a new higher skills centre for Kirklees College, which is due to open in September.
The latest investment in the town’s heritage shop front and spaces, The Dewsbury Revival Grant Scheme, will shortly be open for applications from businesses in the town’s conservation area.
The council says it has already begun to improve the town’s public spaces. It is planning to buy The Arcade by the end of March, and has carried out feasibility work for Dewsbury Market and the Town Park.