The revitalisation of Elland town centre has taken a significant step forward as Calderdale Council has selected contractors to execute the planned projects.
An investment exceeding £6 million from the Future High Streets Fund is earmarked for the heart of Elland. This financial injection is set to bolster enhancements in public spaces, the primary shopping precincts centred around Southgate, and the refurbishment of the Cartwheel Club, a community establishment. This substantial funding infusion aims to transform Elland into a bustling market town, characterised by vibrancy, safety, and an appealing environment for local businesses, residents, and visitors alike.
The town’s makeover comprises four distinct phases, with two contractors being chosen through a rigorous tender process to undertake various aspects of the project.
The transformation of the town centre’s aesthetics will be overseen by Eric Wright Civil Engineering. This scope encompasses:
Revamping the Market Square area: An allocation of over £1 million will uplift this area, which historically hosts the local market. This includes surface upgrades, extensive work on the adjoining Victoria Gardens, and the lower segment of Elizabeth Street.
Enhancing the Heart of the High Street: Responding to community feedback, improvements are underway to enhance signage, lighting, and the overall street ambience along the high street, making it more secure and visually appealing.
Southgate Renovation: Southgate will be transformed into a pedestrian-friendly zone, complemented by a new seating area that will align with proposed enhancements to Southgate Square, featuring greenery and trees.
Simultaneously, additional improvements are planned for the Cartwheel Club within Elland town centre, and Code Building Solutions has been entrusted with this task. The project entails a comprehensive refurbishment of the facility to establish a new community hub at the heart of Elland.
Construction work by Code Building Solutions is already underway, with completion expected in early 2024.
Eric Wright Civil Engineering will commence work around the town centre during the upcoming autumn season, conducting survey activities in September and initiating construction on-site in October.
The project will be executed in phases, with every precaution taken to minimize disruption to local businesses and residents during the construction process.
Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Towns, Tourism and Voluntary Sector, Cllr Sarah Courtney, said; “These are exciting times for Elland, with Future High Streets funding being used to transform the town centre and bring significant benefits for those living, working or visiting the town.
“It’s great news that we’ve now appointed the contractors to deliver the projects, which will support the Council’s priority for thriving towns and places with new and improved services for local communities.”
Diane Bourne, Managing Director of Eric Wright Civil Engineering commented; ‘I’m thrilled that Eric Wright Civil Engineering has been appointed by Calderdale Council to deliver transformative works in Elland High Street, along with the creation of landscaped beds and planting trees around the town centre. We’re looking forward to working collaboratively with everyone involved to deliver works that will not only harness the area’s historical features but create thriving, safe places for local residents, businesses and visitors to enjoy.’
Paul O’Hare, Director at Code Building Solutions, said; “It’s great news for Code to participate in the regeneration of the Cartwheel Club. The refurbishment will allow the building to be fully utilised as a fantastic facility for the community in Elland. Coming so soon after our refurbishment of the town’s library, it is clear to see there is a drive to ensure Elland is thriving in the coming decades.”
