Kirklees Together

Our ambitious plans to improve Holmfirth town centre are gaining support. Local business owners are excited by what they mean for the town’s future.

What’s happening in Holmfirth?

Earlier this year we allocated £1.5M to improve Holmfirth Town Centre, as part of our Small Centres Funding.

The council in partnership with the West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA) is also investing £3.9m in the Holmfirth Town Centre Access Plan.

Professor Graham Leslie, C.B.E. founder of pharmaceutical company Galpharm is passionate about seeing investment into Holmfirth and is delighted to support the scheme.

Graham has strong connections to the town, his daughter and son-in-law own Holmfirth Bar Oscars. And, he personally owns a building on the south side of Victoria Street. Victoria Street is one of the roads which will see the biggest improvements.

Graham said:

“Holmfirth is a lovely town, and worthy of investment.  However, its popularity means it’s also a busy one. The congestion caused by the current road layout is not only frustrating for local businesses and visitors but also potentially dangerous.  The planned wider footways and river view walkways will make sure everyone can enjoy a safe visit to the town. ’

“We need to make sure our little town is fit for the future. This means we need adequate parking for all types of vehicles including electric cars and e-bikes, as well as free flowing traffic system that makes it a more pleasurable place to spend time.  I’m also excited to see what will happen with the planned event space and new market offer.  This can only add to the town’s appeal in years to come, bringing more residents and visitors into town to enjoy our local independent shops, bars, cafes and restaurants.

“We all know that any investment and regeneration require the right infrastructure so starting with the roads makes perfect sense. By getting the roads right you have a solid foundation for future investments to be successful.

“The council and combined authority are making a significant investment in the town.”

Graham continued: ”

The council and combined authority are making a significant investment in the town.

This is because they, like the residents and businesses that call it home, value its cultural and creative heritage.   I’m sure that what little disruption the changes will cause in the short term will be worth it. Especially when we see the increased vibrancy and further investment over the coming years.”

Holmfirth Town Centre Action Plan

The Access Plan includes the demolition of the former market hall and extension of the adjacent Huddersfield Road car park. The scheme aims to improve disabled access and the layout of parking bays. The new car park will also have ability to host events and markets.

Three new footways between Huddersfield Road and Hollowgate will improve movement through the town. A new wider river deck will supply improved views and opportunities for more event space, cycle parking and seating. As well as reducing congestion and journey times the scheme has a number of other environmental additions. The benefits include new electric vehicle charging points for cars and e-bikes.

How can I share my views on Holmfirth?

The Leader of Kirklees Council announced our Small Towns Funding in March 2021. The funding will be available for both short and longer term projects that maximise the town’s unique selling points, support the local economy and help Holmfirth recover after the pandemic. To help us decide how to spend the £1.5M we’re asking how you feel about Holmfirth town centre now. We also want to know what you’d like to see in the future.  The engagement is taking place in person in the town centre from until 15 October 21, and online at http://www.yourvoiceholmfirth.org.uk

Councillor Shabir Pandor, Leader of Kirklees Council said:

“I am looking forward to hearing residents views on Holmfirth and would encourage them to take the time to get involved in the engagement process.

“This is an exciting time for regeneration in Kirklees with our blueprints in Huddersfield and Dewsbury, and the small towns investment in Holmfirth, Heckmondwike, Cleckheaton and Batley.  It’s important that local people are at the heart of our decision making and that we work together to maximise the benefits for towns like Holmfirth and Kirklees as a whole.”