By KLTV Newsdesk –

Dewsbury is set to see further improvements to the area surrounding its historic Town Hall as the second phase of Kirklees Council’s redevelopment project begins.

The project aims to enhance the public space, making it more beautiful, accessible, and pedestrian-friendly for residents and visitors alike.

Upcoming Works and Enhancements

The next phase of construction will begin in early April, focusing on the Town Hall Apron. The primary improvements include:

• Resurfacing: Much of the existing paving will be replaced with high-quality stone and granite materials.
• Greener Spaces: More trees will be planted to create a vibrant and eco-friendly environment.
• Pedestrianisation: The southern section of Town Hall Way will be transformed into a pedestrian-only zone, improving safety and accessibility for those on foot.

To accommodate these works, Dewsbury Town Hall will be closed to the public on April 4th and 5th.

Long-Term Plans for the Area

The redevelopment is part of a broader effort to enhance the town centre. Key elements of the project include:

• Traffic Flow Adjustments: Once completed, through access will no longer be available on Town Hall Way.
• Improved Parking Facilities: The project has already introduced 19 new pay-and-display parking spaces and additional accessible and loading bay parking at the northern entrance of the Town Hall. The car park at Wakefield Old Road will remain open throughout the works.
• Enhanced Memorial Square: The final phase, set to commence in summer 2025, will focus on improving the steps leading to Memorial Square, adding more trees and greenery, and installing a curved seating area near the Walsh Building.
• Historic Tribute: Artistic paving featuring old railway tracks will be incorporated into the design as a nod to Dewsbury’s railway heritage.
• Taxi Rank Relocation: The Longcauseway taxi rank will be moved to the eastern side, closer to the bus stops.

The entire project is expected to be completed by winter 2025.

Council’s Commitment to Revitalisation

Councillor Graham Turner, Cabinet Member for Finance and Regeneration, expressed his enthusiasm for the redevelopment: “This next phase of investment in Dewsbury is yet another example of ours and our partners’ commitment to creating a revitalised Dewsbury town centre that is safe and an attractive place to both shop and spend time in.

“Introducing more greenery with different projects across Dewsbury town centre, including the memorial gardens and new town park, will not only bring environmental and health benefits but also encourage more people to spend quality time in the town centre, benefitting businesses.

“Creating more accessible parking close to key buildings and businesses will also make the town centre work better for everyone.

“With much more investment planned over the next few years, I believe that Dewsbury will become an example of how investment in regeneration can create something special for our residents.”

Funding and Support

The redevelopment is part of the Dewsbury Town Deal Programme, funded by the UK Government’s Town Fund and Kirklees Council’s capital funding.

The Town Deals initiative aims to boost economic growth and regeneration across the UK, investing over £2.35bn into approximately 700 projects nationwide.