A chance to join public consultations on future of New Street and Cloth Hall Street

Kirklees Council has published proposals for rejuvenating New Street and Cloth Hall Street, key elements within the Council's Blueprint for the town centre.

The links at the foot of this story provide an opportunity to view images of the intended improvements, including details about street furniture, lighting and paving, plus a chance to join public consultations on December 16 and 17.

HCS chairman David Wyles with HCS Executive Committee colleagues, Chas Ball and Martin Kilburn welcomed the opportunity to view the proposals a few weeks ago.

They were generally supportive but concerns were raised over the durability of certain features and issues of maintenance, especially in relation to flower beds and the sculptural elements that HCS had initially objected to when an application (now approved) for these features was submitted.

Some may recall raised planting areas along the section of New Street between High Street and Wilkinsons (this section is, somewhat unfortunately, not included in current proposals) which was beset with difficulties arising from lack of regular maintenance, exacerbated by people walking across the beds, removing plants and dropping litter. It is critical such problems are addressed before final designs are implemented. 

In short, the current proposals must be practical, functional and hard-wearing, as well as supporting the regeneration of New Street in terms of the future use of adjacent properties. 

Kirklees must take full consideration of these issues but I hope HCS Members and others will take this opportunity to view and comment on these proposals. 

Public consultation events

December 16 , noon:  Join Kirklees Public Consultation live stream
December 17, 5.30 pm: Join Kirklees Public Consultation live stream