DISAPPOINTMENT AT CASTLE HILL CLOSURE (Kirklees Liberal Democrats)

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

DISAPPOINTMENT AT CASTLE HILL CLOSURE

May 14, 2008 1:26 PM

Jubilee Tower

Residents and visitors to the Jubilee Tower were disappointed to find the doors locked and bolted this May Day due to staff illness.

Councillor Ann Denham (Lib Dem, Almondbury Ward) says that the council needs to make sure that visitors to the historic site are not disappointed like this again in the future.

Cllr Ann Denham said: "I think it is poor that the absence of one member of staff resulted in the Jubilee Tower being closed to the public on a major bank holiday.

"Kirklees needs to attract more tourists to come to the area. We certainly have the scenery and heritage to attract them. Increasing numbers of visitors would bring a welcome boost to the local economy and help to support local businesses.

"But having the doors of the tower locked and bolted on one of the busiest days of the year will certainly not help to establish Kirklees as a recommended destination for tourists and day trippers. The council needs to look again at how it prepares itself to cover staff absence on these important public holidays to make sure its major landmarks are open to visitors.

"Happily the hill top was still very busy on the Bank Holiday Monday with people enjoying the good weather, but like them I was also disappointed at not to being able to take in the marvellous view from the top".