Press releases

Hebden Bridge Council Offices are a step nearer to becoming a community hub.

Last night members of the Council's Cabinet committee agreed to transfer the building over to the local community. Hebden Bridge Community Association can now look at developing the property in two phases.

Phase one will 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. The group has been given a 40 year lease and it will have to meet key targets as part of a management agreement.

The building will continue to be used by Calderdale Council for as long as is necessary and the proposals do not affect the town and parish Councils who already use the building.

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

“This is a great project and I am happy that we have had the chance to be involved in a scheme which will give local people more influence and a greater sense identity.

“Once up and running the hub will help to strengthen community cohesion and develop business opportunities within the community.

“As a Council we want to preserve the borough's heritage and develop local business and talent. This scheme will help us to do just that.”