Press releases

Councillors will next week decide whether to transfer Hebden Bridge Council Offices to the local community.

If members of the Cabinet agree when they meet on Monday, December 7 the building will be transferred to Hebden Bridge Community Association and will effectively become a town hall.

The association wants to develop the offices into a community hub. This will be done in two phases. Phase one would see the building offering a range of community services as well as offering meeting and function space for local people. Phase two would see further development of the building to create space for high-tech and creative industries.

The 450-strong community association was set up specifically to take over the council offices and develop it into community hub. If Councillors agree to their proposals the group will be given a 40 year lease and will have to meet key targets as part of a management agreement.

Under the proposals the building would continue to be used by Calderdale Council for as long as it was deemed necessary. The proposals will also not affect usage by the town and parish Councils.

Councillor Ian Cooper, portfolio holder for safer and stronger communities, said:

“If we go ahead with this I am confident it will create a feeling among local people that they have more local influence and identity.

“A successful community hub will help to strengthen community cohesion and develop business opportunities within the community.

“It is also a priority for the Council to preserve the borough's heritage and develop local business and talent. This proposal meets all those aims.”