Work to transform Elland town centre is underway, with revised plans for the Southgate area and Coronation Street car park being developed based on local feedback. Over £6 million from the Future High Streets Fund will be invested in Elland, improving public spaces and the main shopping areas around Southgate. This substantial funding aims to create a thriving market town that is vibrant, safe, and appealing to visitors. With a total value of more than £30 million, this project is part of an impressive portfolio of initiatives for Elland and its surrounding area.
Earlier this year, the Council organised an engagement event in the town centre to gather opinions on options for the Southgate area, particularly the Coronation Street car park. The event drew over 100 attendees, and additional feedback was obtained through an online consultation. Three different options for the space were presented, accompanied by visual representations, while Council officers and project architects were present to offer detailed explanations.
Following the event, the Council collected feedback from residents and local businesses, incorporating it into the development of revised proposals for the area. The preferred option includes the introduction of greenery and trees along the high street, improved pedestrian access to Southgate, and the creation of a seating area that complements the planned enhancements to Southgate Square. Moreover, this option retains 17 parking bays in the Coronation Street car park, while two additional parking spaces will be added on the adjacent road.
To enhance accessibility, new disability parking and drop-off bays will be established on Coronation Street, along with a ramped footpath that provides safe and step-free access to the high street. A new seating area will be created at Southgate Square, providing a space for residents, shoppers, and visitors to relax, socialise, and participate in events.
The Southgate plans are part of broader developments supported by the Future High Street Fund in Elland. Additional proposals include revised road layouts with wider pavements and other measures to improve usability and pedestrian and cyclist safety in the town centre. Moreover, enhancements to Market Square are planned, along with the refurbishment of the local community building, the Cartwheel Club, which will be transformed into a multifunctional hub for community groups.
Councillor Sarah Courtney, Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Towns, Engagement, and Public Health, expressed satisfaction with the progress. She stated, “Following further feedback discussions with local people, we’re happy to be able to progress plans for the Southgate area of Elland town centre. The preferred option will retain more parking spaces in the Coronation Street car park, but also enable the development of an events area, with green space and seating. The new designs, alongside wider plans for the town, will help to transform the centre of Elland and make it an even better place to live, work, or visit. We’ll soon be appointing a contractor to carry out the works in the town, and I look forward to seeing the plans becoming a reality.”
