OLD TEXTILES SITE NEEDS NEW LEASE OF LIFE (Kirklees Liberal Democrats)

Kirklees Liberal Democrats <info@kirkleeslibdems.org.uk>

OLD TEXTILES SITE NEEDS NEW LEASE OF LIFE

March 13, 2007 3:57 AM

Cllr warns of safety risk in continuing push for redevelopment

Cllr warns of safety risk in continuing push for redevelopment

Cllr Andrew Pinnock (Lib Dem, Cleckheaton Ward) has held talks with council officers to try and get Kirklees to play a larger role in the redevelopment of the old mill site on Westgate, Cleckheaton.

Once a thriving textiles centre and business concern, the old mill site has fallen into disuse and disrepair.

The companies that came after the industries demise, have now too faded away, leaving a hollow and neglected shell.

"The current state of the site is very sad" says Cllr Andrew Pinnock "A part of our local heritage has become an eye sore in the end. I would personally very much like to see something new happening there soon, especially if it involved bringing new jobs into the area".

"There is also the issue of safety to think about. The empty buildings attract youngsters on to the site - which isn't secured - and this is placing them at risk which is unacceptable".

"Last year, when a group of travellers set up home in some of the buildings off Stone Street we succeeded in getting some of the buildings demolished but progress since then has been slow at best"

"I and my fellow ward councillors have clearly made the point that leaving the site in it current condition is just inviting a serious accident to take place."

"I've just had talks with Kirklees going over these issues again encouraging them to play a larger role in ensuring the redevelopment of the site. I am now hoping for action in the near future".

"As soon as I have any information concerning a proposal I will be in touch with local people to gain their view so that they can have their say".