By Joshua Robinson – 

Main construction works are due to begin at Heckmondwike Bus Hub, transforming the current space into a fully accessible bus station, providing better transport links from the town centre.

Funded by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority’s Transforming Cities Fund (TCF), and part of Kirklees Council’s wider Heckmondwike Blueprint plans, the main phase of the development will begin, with work expected to take around 12 months.

The £10.5 million investment will see work start on replacing the current bus hub with an accessible bus station which will include more bus stops, additional indoor seating, better footways, cycle parking, solar panels, a “green roof” with plants, and communal outdoor spaces.

New toilet facilities will be created, including a “Changing Places” room – an all-in-one facility that caters for the needs of people who are not able to use the toilet independently.

Councillor Moses Crook, Cabinet Member for Transport and Housing said to Kirklees Together: “The new bus station promises to be a welcoming, safe, and bright space with more comfortable surroundings. I hope these new facilities will result in more people opting for alternative sustainable transport options, leading to fewer car journeys and less congestion around the town centre.”

“This development is at the heart of Heckmondwike. It marks the beginning of a more accessible, and modern town centre that local residents, and businesses deserve and can be proud of.”

Mayor of West Yorkshire Tracy Brabin said to Kirklees Together: “I am so pleased to see the next phase of work begin, to improve this important transport hub. This new station will encourage people to switch to public transport and help West Yorkshire reach its goal of net-zero carbon by 2038.”

“I’m looking forward to seeing it open to passengers as we continue to build a better-connected region that works for all.”

To allow the work to go ahead safely, bus stops have been relocated, and the area cordoned off to the public. Working hours on site are from 7:30 am until 6:30 pm Monday through Friday, and 8 am – 1 pm on Saturdays. Work is not expected to take place on Sundays or Bank Holidays unless there are exceptional circumstances.

This project is being delivered through the Combined Authority’s TCF programme, which is aimed at making it easier to walk, cycle, and use public transport. A programme focused on connecting people in communities with greatest economic need with job and training opportunities. Kirklees secured a total of more than £60 million from the TCF, which will be used to deliver a programme of transport improvements across the district.

Heckmondwike Blueprint is a masterplan that will guide investment in the town over the next 10 to 15 years through funding by Kirklees Council and West Yorkshire Combined Authority.

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