Work is finally due to start on a regeneration scheme for Holmfirth town centre – but costs have spiralled again.

When the Holmfirth Town Centre Access Plan was first approved by Kirklees Council’s Cabinet in July 2022 the cost was said to be £3.9 million.

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

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

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

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

The work will start on the Huddersfield Road Car Park where the market hall and existing footbridge will be replaced. On the market hall site there will be a public events space and 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 there will be road improvements aimed at easing traffic flow through the town centre.

Pavements will be widened and the pedestrian crossing on Victoria Street will also be signalised. There will also be better street lighting, traffic signals and signage.

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

“Once complete, the town centre will be a much more accessible and enjoyable for all, whilst we continue to help local businesses thrive and boost the local economy, whilst improving congestion, journey times and encourage active travel.

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

Huddersfield Road Car Park (Holmfirth Market) will be closed throughout the construction to ensure the safety of the public and the construction team.

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 in place in advance of the works starting, displaying details of important information.

Any noisy operational work should be completed by midnight. If at any point the programme is unexpectedly delayed, advance notice will be given to residents and businesses in the area.

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

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