Work to start on Holmfirth regeneration scheme but costs rise to £10.3m

Work is finally set to start on a regeneration scheme for Holmfirth town center – but costs have risen again.

When the Holmfirth town center access plan was first approved by Kirklees Council’s Cabinet in July 2022, it was said to cost £3.9 million.

By March 2023, the cost – funded by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority – had risen to £7.47m.

Now, with work due to start on Monday 1 July 2024, the council says the scheme will cost £10.3 million.

The council has also pledged £1.5m for a separate Holmfirth Blueprint and carried out a public consultation on what people want to see.

The centerpiece of the Access Plan is the demolition of the former Holmfirth Market Hall, the construction of a new footbridge over the River Holme and the creation of a public events space.

Work will begin at Huddersfield Road Car Park where the existing concourse and footbridge will be replaced. On the site of the hall there will be a space for public events and a new car park, which will have 26 spaces, two more than at present.

Holmfirth Market Hall. Images by Huddersfield Hub photographer SEAN DOYLE

As part of the wider scheme, roads will be improved to ease the flow of traffic through the city centre.

The sidewalks will be widened and the pedestrian crossing on Victoria Street will be signalized. There will also be better street lighting, signage and signage.

David Shepherd, strategic director for growth and regeneration at Kirklees Council, said: “The Holmfirth Town Center Access Plan will give longevity to the area, modernizing Holmfirth’s unique offer whilst embracing and celebrating the town’s famous heritage.

“Once complete, the city center will be much more accessible and enjoyable for all, as we continue to help local businesses thrive and boost the local economy, while improving congestion, travel times and encouraging active travel.

“This scheme is a collaborative effort by the community, the council and the Combined Authority to create a brighter future for Holmfirth.”

Huddersfield Road car park (Holmfirth Square) will be closed throughout construction to ensure the safety of the public and construction crew.

Alternative public parking can be found at Bridge Lane Car Park, Crown Bottom Car Park, Council Office Car Park and Town Gate Car Parks (bus station).

Digital variable messaging signs will be installed before work begins detailing important information.

Any noisy operational work should be completed by midnight. If at any time the program is unexpectedly delayed, residents and businesses in the area will be notified in advance.

More information about the project and the Holmfirth Plan can be found online at www.kirklees.gov.uk/holmfirth-blueprint.

Work to start on Holmfirth Blueprint town center this summer – but costs have doubled to £7.47m